The Federal Government has ordered an immediate suspension of ongoing construction work on the 12-kilometre Sagamu-Iperu Road, near the Sagamu Interchange on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, due to poor execution by the contractor.
During a site inspection on Thursday, the Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, expressed strong dissatisfaction with the quality and pace of work. He issued a seven-day ultimatum to the contractor to correct deficiencies, including the removal of the existing stone base, which he deemed substandard.
Quality Concerns and Safety Risks
Senator Umahi highlighted several issues plaguing the project, including inappropriate materials and equipment being used on the site. He instructed the contractor to bring in the correct milling machine and properly mixed stone base materials to ensure compliance with engineering standards.
Beyond the road itself, the minister also raised alarm over rusted reinforcement rods on piers supporting nearby bridges, warning that the integrity of the structures was at risk.
“That is very dangerous,” Umahi stated. “If any of them should collapse, it will take multi-billion naira to reconstruct, but now it will take less to amend.”
Next Steps and Presidential Briefing
To fast-track remediation efforts, Umahi deployed a design team to remain on-site and work through the weekend. The team is expected to produce a comprehensive structural drawing and costing within the seven-day timeframe.
“I will present the findings to Mr President. This is very urgent,” the minister said.
Broader Infrastructure Oversight
The directive is part of Umahi’s wider tour of federal road projects across Lagos and Ogun states, aimed at ensuring strict compliance with quality standards and fast-tracking project delivery timelines.
This move signals the Federal Government’s renewed focus on infrastructure integrity, safety, and value for money under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
