The Ogun State Government said on Thursday that it would soon commence the demolition of illegal structures along the Lagos/Ibadan Expressway to ease traffic congestion on the road.
The state Commissioner for Forestry, Mr Kolawole Lawal, stated this at a forum organised to sensitise stakeholders in Abeokuta.
Lawal said the exercise was part of efforts by the state to create a clean and attractive environment safe enough for road users.
He said the structures to be demolished included shanties, petrol stations, firms and markets that had encroached on the mandatory 70 metres setback on the expressway.
“The affected structures have been identified and we have written to the owners since April to correct the anomalies.”
He said Gov. Ibikunle Amosun had already set up a committee for the project, to enable the government take ownership of the mandatory 70 metres setback on the highway.
“The committee which I chair, is also expected to beautify the road through activities such as landscaping and tree planting.
“It will create access lanes and also construct barriers and ditches to prevent illegal activities on the roadside.
“Other facilities for road users such as lay-byes or rest stops will also be provided on the highway.”
The commissioner said the project would be executed in phases with the pilot starting from Isheri to Arepo while other parts within Ogun territory would be implemented subsequently.
He explained that the popular Kara Market along the Isheri axis would be relocated to give way to the Metro City in the area.
Lawal further said thatnthe government was collaborating with religious bodies, firms, residents and other stakeholders around the area to ensure the success of the project.
He explained that the forum was organised to harvest inputs from the stakeholders before the commencement of the project. (NAN)