Members of the Federated Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ogun State Council, on Friday embarked on a community service exercise to clear a long-blocked drainage along Oke’lewo Road in Abeokuta South Local Government Area of Ogun State, as part of efforts to address persistent flooding, erosion, and road safety concerns in the area.
The drainage, located in front of the NUJ Secretariat and extending to adjoining parts of the road, had remained blocked for several years, leading to severe erosion and the gradual deterioration of the road, particularly during the rainy season.
The blockage resulted in the formation of large potholes, making movement difficult and causing frequent traffic congestion. Motorists, commercial motorcyclists, and pedestrians have also been exposed to significant risks, with several motorcycle riders reportedly falling into the potholes with their passengers, resulting in injuries and other casualties over the years.
Concerned by the worsening condition of the road and the absence of prompt intervention, members of the Federated Chapel took the initiative to clear the drainage to restore the free flow of stormwater.
Speaking on the exercise, the Chairman of the Ogun State NUJ Council, Comrade Juwon Opayemi, represented by the Vice Chairman, Comrade Olamilekan Jaji, said the exercise was aimed at ensuring the free flow of stormwater, reducing erosion, preventing further damage to the road, and improving safety for motorists and other road users during the rainy season.
“We are not just media practitioners; we are part of the society, and contributing to its development is our collective responsibility,” he said.
“The blockage of the drainage is the major cause of the flooding experienced on this road. We believe this exercise will significantly improve the situation. I also call on individuals and private organisations operating along this corridor to support efforts aimed at making the road safer and more accessible for all users.”
The Secretary of the Federated Chapel, Comrade Babalola Gafar, described the exercise as the chapel’s modest contribution toward addressing the environmental challenge affecting the area.
