Senator Saliu Mustapha, representing Kwara Central Senatorial District, has secured renewed commitments from the Federal Government to address the life-threatening conditions at the Oko-Olowo intersection in Ilorin, Kwara State.

The intervention follows a recent fatal accident at the notorious junction, which has become a significant safety hazard for road users. Senator Mustapha had previously raised the issue in the Senate last year via a motion, prompting the chamber to direct the Federal Ministry of Works to take urgent action.

Concerned by the ongoing risks to public safety, the senator escalated the matter directly to senior officials at the Federal Ministry of Works in Abuja, engaging both Minister of Works Dave Umahi and Minister of State for Works Bello Muhammad Goronyo. These consultations were conducted in the spirit of proactive legislative oversight and intergovernmental collaboration.

A statement by Salman Alhaji Salman, Senior Legislative Aide to Saliu Mustapha stated that during the engagement, Senator Mustapha secured the firm assurances of the Ministers, that Engineers from the Federal Ministry of Works would be deployed to the Oko-Olowo intersection for an immediate on-the-spot assessment with a view to determining the immediate, medium and long terms solutions that will permanently address the structural and safety concerns at the intersection.

Senator Dave Umahi, who was until his appointment, a colleague of the Turaki in the 10th Senate, commended Saliu Mustapha for his proactiveness and commitment to the well-being of his constituents.

Senator Mustapha on his part, commended the Ministers for the swift response and reiterated his commitment to the safety and wellbeing of his constituents.

He urged residents and motorists to remain calm and assured them that concrete steps are being taken to forestall further tragedies.

“The safety of our people is non-negotiable, and we will continue to work with all relevant authorities to ensure lasting solutions,” he assured.

The Senator also acknowledged the interim measures being reportedly undertaken by the Kwara State Government, stressing that the state efforts would complement the Federal Government’s planned interventions, which are expected to be more comprehensive and permanent.