In a decisive move to end the recurring carnage at the infamous Oko-Olowo intersection in Ilorin, the Senator representing Kwara Central Senatorial District, Senator Saliu Mustapha, has secured renewed assurances from the Federal Government for immediate and long-term interventions.
This development comes on the heels of yet another devastating accident at the Oko-Olowo axis over the weekend, claiming lives and drawing public outrage over the deteriorating safety conditions of the area.
The intersection has gained a reputation as one of Ilorin’s most dangerous black spots, with many residents and stakeholders voicing concern over the continued loss of lives and calling for the construction of a flyover to improve safety.
Determined to bring a permanent end to the tragic cycle of accidents, Senator Mustapha held a high-level meeting in Abuja with the Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, and the Minister of State for Works, Barr. Bello Muhammad Goronyo, where he made a strong case for the urgent construction of a flyover and other road safety enhancements at the site.
The Senator, who had previously raised the issue via a formal motion on the Senate floor in 2024, prompting a directive to the Ministry of Works, stressed the urgency of fast-tracking engineering assessments and construction timelines.
During the meeting, both Ministers commended Senator Mustapha’s persistence and pledged the Ministry’s full support.
They assured him that a team of engineers from the Federal Ministry of Works would be immediately dispatched to conduct an on-the-ground technical assessment.
Senator Umahi, a former Senate colleague of the Turaki of Ilorin at the National Assembly, praised Senator Mustapha’s proactive leadership and reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to collaborative problem-solving with the National Assembly.
Senator Mustapha had earlier urged the two Ministers to urgently implement a permanent solution to the recurring accidents on the road, expressing deep concern over the continued loss of lives.
“The Oko-Olowo intersection has become a recurring death trap, and this is unacceptable. We must act urgently and decisively. The safety of our people is non-negotiable. I am deeply grateful to the Honourable Ministers for their swift response and shared sense of urgency”, the senator said.
In the meantime, Senator Mustapha urged residents and motorists in Ilorin to remain calm and vigilant, noting that short-term palliative works may also be introduced to reduce immediate risks while the broader intervention is being developed.
He also acknowledged ongoing efforts by the Kwara State Government to manage the situation, emphasizing that federal and state collaboration would be key to delivering a durable solution.
