Double Contractors Spark Controversy Over Federal Road Project in Ogun

Sagamu, Ogun — A federal government-funded road rehabilitation project in Sagamu has become the centre of controversy after the Ogun State Government intervened, leading to the removal of federal project signage and the apparent takeover by state contractors.

According to civil society group @TrackaNG, which tracks public projects, the Rehabilitation of Paddy Arikawe Oye Igbimo Street in Sagamu, Ogun East Senatorial District, was a 2024 Federal Government initiative with ₦250 million allocated.

In November 2025, TrackaNG’s team visited the site and observed ongoing work. Culvert construction was nearing completion, and the road was awaiting asphalting.

Work halted in December 2025 following a directive from the Ogun State Government. Residents reported significant inconvenience, as the road closure forced longer detours to schools, workplaces, and markets.

By January 2026, the state government commenced its own rehabilitation efforts on the same stretch, with dual signposts (federal and state) visible side by side initially. When TrackaNG returned last week (mid-May 2026), the federal government signpost had been removed, leaving only the state one in place.

Key questions raised by TrackaNG are what arrangements were made between the federal and state governments before the project was reassigned?, what happens to funds already disbursed to the original federal contractor? and are there no other priority projects in the state to avoid duplication of resources?

The group has called on the Nigerian Building and Road Research Institute (NBRRI), the former implementing agency, and the Ogun State Government to provide full details and clarity to the public.

This development follows earlier tensions in 2025. The Ogun State Government had previously issued stop-work orders on the project, citing lack of necessary state approvals/permits and, in one instance, alleged use of substandard materials by the contractor.

The project was facilitated by Senator Gbenga Daniel (Ogun East), a former governor. State officials maintained that the intervention was procedural to ensure due process on state roads and not politically motivated. They noted the road had already been shortlisted for state reconstruction.

No official response from NBRRI or the Ogun State Government has been reported in response to TrackaNG’s latest queries.

This case underscores broader challenges of coordination between federal and state governments on infrastructure delivery, potential duplication of efforts, and accountability for public funds.