OAU Students, Residents React to Initiated Repairs on Asherifa Road

Agbele Oluwatofolafun

Students and residents around Asherifa, an off-campus area, a short distance ahead of the Obafemi Awolowo University main gate, have reacted to the initiation of repair works on the long-dilapidated road.

For a long time, inhabitants and motorists have expressed discomfort over the eroded condition of the road. Students returning from lectures and residents going about their daily activities often complained about the difficulty of walking on the dusty, slope-like, and rugged surface, or boarding motorcycles while dust hit their faces.

Motorists also expressed concern over the road condition, describing it as strenuous to navigate due to potholes and erosion. While commuters highlighted the impact on their health because of dust, motorists stressed the damage being caused to their vehicles.

However, a sign of relief appears to be emerging as residents now observe rough black patches on parts of the road and small heaps of sand placed at junctions within the area, indicating early stages of repair activity.

Omolola, a resident who said she had fallen several times on the road, gave her reaction to the development.

“I cannot count how many times I have fallen on this uneven road. I'm glad they are doing something about it, and I hope that they get it done quickly,” she said.

The repair effort was also observed through a temporary traffic arrangement introduced in the area. Vehicles were redirected to use alternative routes to enter Asherifa, while the main entrance was designated as the exit point.

A 300-level student, who spoke anonymously, described his experience with the new arrangement.

“Resuming last week, I boarded a bike with my loads to enter the area. I had never known that route was connected to Asherifa before, so when the bike man started going in the direction of the new route I shouted at him to stop and told him he went the wrong way.

“This man didn't stop but then he explained to me that it was the new way to enter the place due to the road repair. I was scared at first but when I saw the familiar road that was connected to the passage, my fear died down and I apologised to the bike man. I really hope it's not a facade,” he said.

According to some residents, while the traffic arrangement has brought some level of order, it has not reduced the dust clouds caused by the frequent movement of commuters.

Miss Okunola, a long-time resident, also shared her concern.

“What they are trying to do is a good thing really. But I fear there might be a few hassles when the construction officially starts. You know, more dust and more sand, before things finally smoothen out sha,” she said.

Meanwhile, some residents have commended the initial repair efforts, noting that although materials and preparatory activities are visible, they will reserve full judgment until active construction begins.

They emphasized that while the repair has been initiated, full construction is yet to commence, but early signs suggest progress toward addressing the long-standing condition of the road.