How Sanwo-Olu's New Roads Transform Lives: A Call to Landlords

Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the governor of Lagos State, has cautioned landlords against raising rents in the Agboyi-Ketu Local Council Development Area (LCDA) of the state after new roads were built.

During the commissioning of Demurin, Agidi, and Church Streets in the LCDA on Thursday, the governor made this plea.

Speaking at the gathering, which was attended by local leaders, government representatives, and traditional rulers, Sanwo-Olu emphasized how the recently finished roads would affect local transportation and economic activity.

Sanwo-Olu was pleased that the roads had been completed successfully and said that they will increase connection, reduce traffic, and improve the general well-being of the locals.

However, he advised landlords not to use the development as an excuse to raise rents.

"Please refrain from raising your rent because we are not doing this to burden your tenants. Even though the value of your property has increased, I implore you not to take advantage of the situation to take advantage of tenants," he stated.

The roads offer a strategic detour, cutting down on travel time between Alapere, Mile 12, and Ikorodu, the governor noted.

Trips that used to take up to half an hour can now be finished in less than five minutes, he said.

In addition to assuring that more areas will profit from comparable initiatives, Sanwo-Olu reassured locals that his administration would keep funding road infrastructure throughout Lagos.

Mayor Dele Osinowo, the chairman of the Agboyi-Ketu LCDA, commended the Lagos State Government for repairing the roads, calling them a "game-changer" for the local economy.

"This project is a tremendous comfort if you were familiar with Demurin and Agidi roads a few years back. Businesses suffered as a result of these roads' appalling state. However, things have changed today because of Mr. Governor," Osinowo stated.

Although he admitted that the area's enhanced infrastructure had increased property values, he urged landlords to hold off on raising rents right away.

"To deter abrupt rent increases, we will work with landlords via Community Development Committees (CDCs)." "We want residents to equitably benefit from this development," he said.

Osinowo also highlighted plans to preserve the roads, including enforcing a ban on street trade and unlawful parking.

“We will partner with the Lagos State Government to ensure these roads remain in good condition. Those who obstruct footpaths or park unlawfully will face consequences, he said.

Retro Construction Limited and Regent Construction Limited built the recently put into service highways.

With Demurin Road being 1.6 km and Agidi Road measuring 750 m, the project was carried out in two sections, according to Special Adviser on Infrastructure Engr. Olufemi Daramola.

According to Daramola, the project will improve mobility for both people and companies by establishing a "strategic link" between Ikorodu and the Third Mainland Bridge via Alapere.

Similarly, Honourable Obafemi Saheed, who represents Kosofe II in the Lagos State House of Assembly, commended the governor for fulfilling his campaign promise.

“With this road, you no longer need to pass through Ketu or Ojota to get to Ikorodu. From Alapere, you can go straight to Mile 12 and connect to Ikorodu with ease,” he said.