The Kwara South Youth Congress (KSYC) has intensified its ongoing appeal to Mallam Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, the Executive Governor of Kwara State, regarding significant infrastructure deficiencies that persist across the state. In a recent press statement issued to journalists in Ilorin by their Publicity Secretary, Adejare Bashir, the group raised serious concerns about the deteriorating state of infrastructure in Offa Local Government Area.This town is notable for its rich historical significance and plays a vital role in the fabric of Kwara’s development.
Bashir articulated the group’s plea, stating, “We are earnestly urging the Governor of Kwara State to prioritize the development of Offa. This town has not only contributed significantly to his political rise as the governor but also holds the distinction of being the second-largest city in Kwara, following Ilorin. Offa is home to numerous national and state institutions; however, it is disheartening to see that, despite its strategic importance, the town is grappling with a lack of inclusivity and progressive development, particularly concerning its road infrastructure.”
He emphasized that the roads in Offa are not only essential for daily commuting but also for the overall economic growth and connectivity of the region. The KSYC believes that attention to these infrastructure issues is crucial for fostering a more equitable environment within Kwara State and ensuring that all towns, especially those with historical and economic significance like Offa, receive the developmental support they need.
During our visit to Offa, we found that the town is rapidly losing its former vibrancy and charm. The Offa General Hospital, which once served as a critical healthcare center for various communities in the area, has fallen into disrepair and inefficiency. A significant shortage of medical staff has plagued the hospital, and the condition of its structures and medical facilities has significantly deteriorated. The quality of medical care provided there is distressingly inadequate, leaving residents in need of vital health services with little recourse.
It is disheartening that, despite Offa’s potential and presence on the global map, a staggering 80 percent of its roads are in a state of disrepair. The community, which has shown considerable support for Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, has only seen the completion of one major road project: the over 2-kilometer-long Amuyo Road. Unfortunately, the situation with Rondo Road has been particularly disappointing; what was once a promising infrastructure project has become an emblem of neglect. This less-than-2-kilometer stretch of road has languished unfinished for over three years, highlighting the urgent need for attention and action to restore the town’s infrastructure and essential services.
“While we appreciate the government intervention on the ongoing construction of General to Osunte junction and the comprehensive renovation of Popo road, we equally appeal to the Kwara state government to fast track the completion of this roads before the raining season, it will not only serve the users, it will promote business in the axis.
Kwara South Youth Congress also appeals to the government to consider the renovation of Adesoye College- Igosun road, apart from the fact that the road serves many residents, it also leads to various towns like Igosun and others in Oyun LG, we appeal to Kwara State to safe the people of this communities for daily stress, Bashir said.
The statement further emphasized the pressing electricity challenges faced by the city of Offa, noting its significant economic potential. It pointed out that the lack of functional transformers in key areas has severely hindered economic activities, with many transformers either nonexistent or damaged. This shortcoming has resulted in frequent power outages, which disrupt local businesses and impede growth. The statement stressed that citizens have a rightful expectation to receive the benefits of democracy, as guaranteed by the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. In conclusion, it called for urgent action to address these electricity issues to foster economic development and improve the quality of life for the residents of Offa.
