Residents and youths of Akotogbo and Ijuosun communities in Ondo State have called on Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to intervene in the delayed construction of the Ajagba-Akotogbo-Ijuosun Road and address the prolonged lack of electricity in the areas.

The appeal was made by the Akotogbo and Ijuosun Youths Forum in a statement dated November 4 and signed by its Chairman, Tony Orilabawaye.

The group said the 28-kilometre road project, approved in June 2024, remained incomplete more than two years after its approval, leaving residents struggling with poor transportation links to farms, markets, schools and healthcare facilities.

It described the condition of the road as deplorable, citing deep potholes, erosion and overgrown sections that had made movement difficult and dangerous for commuters.

The forum also raised concerns over road safety, reporting an incident in which a woman from Ijuosun sustained fractures to her hands and leg following an accident while travelling along the route.

It urged the governor to direct emergency repairs, clear drainage channels and install warning signs while construction work continued.

The group further requested an independent technical assessment of completed sections, particularly along the Akotogbo axis, to establish whether the work met approved construction specifications.

It also called for the publication of project payment records, certified work completed and outstanding financial obligations to provide clarity on the project's funding and implementation status.

On electricity, the forum said the two communities had endured inadequate power infrastructure for approximately 20 years, adding that Ijuosun had never been connected to the national electricity grid.

According to the group, the situation had placed considerable financial pressure on artisans and small business owners who relied on alternative power sources, while students faced difficulties studying at night.

It stressed that reliable electricity would improve economic activities, support local businesses and create better opportunities for young people to develop their livelihoods within the communities.

The forum called on the state government to collaborate with relevant electricity agencies to assess the situation and develop a practical plan for extending power supply to both communities.

It also requested a meeting with government representatives and a written response within 14 days, detailing proposed interventions and the officials responsible for implementing them.