Concerns have been raised over drainage works being carried out on the ongoing Ayegun-Oloye Road project in Ibadan, Oyo State, with residents calling for the infrastructure to be examined before construction is completed.

The approximately eight-kilometre road is one of the federal projects being executed in the state and has a contract value of ₦12.793 billion.

Sahara Reporters, which reported the concerns, said residents and other stakeholders drew attention to sections of the drainage works where water had accumulated around the road during the construction process.

They have consequently asked the relevant authorities to assess the drainage structures, construction materials and workmanship to establish whether the project is being executed according to the approved specifications.

Photographs and videos cited in the report showed water around portions of the road and drainage structures. The residents said their concerns were driven by the need to ensure that the project delivers lasting infrastructure commensurate with the public funds committed to it.

The project was initially designed to use reinforced concrete pavement but was later changed to asphalt. Minister of Works, David Umahi, explained that the adjustment was made because of the heavy activity around the route and the time required for reinforced concrete pavement to mature.

Umahi said the redesign reduced the cost from ₦12.833 billion to ₦12.793 billion, with Zayon Construction Nigeria Limited named as the contractor handling the project.

The residents are now seeking an inspection of the areas of concern while work is still ongoing, saying any defects discovered should be addressed before the road is handed over.

They maintained that their objective was not to stop the project but to ensure that the completed road and its drainage system meet the required standard and provide value for the money being spent by the government.