Residents say they expect more from council in 2010

The residents of Oshodi Council are hoping more social amenities will come their way next year.

Most of the residents who spoke to NEXT said they were happy with the projects of the Oshodi/Isolo council boss, Ipesa Balogun, although they want the water project it started in October completed before 2010.

Good work

Mumuni Abgala, a tailor, said the resurfacing work on Akinniku Street has helped his business, as his customers found it difficult to reach his shop before. He said, although that is the only work by the council that has affected him personally, it is a good effort.

"We were begging for road before, but now road is here," said Mr. Agbala. "The work started in June and we are enjoying it."

Another resident, Suzan Rafael, said the repair work carried out in six of the public primary schools in the area is her favourite among the programmes of the council this year.

"I like the renovations in the schools because now our children now have good toilets and classrooms," said the mother of two. "I also like the patching of roads like Igbehinadun, Brown, and Balogun Streets. The chairman has tried."

However, Mrs. Rafael added that the quality of education in the public schools is suspect and needs to improve considerably.

"Many of the children going to public schools are better off sitting at home. What they are learning is very poor. Try to speak English to some of the children there and they will just be looking at you." She said.

Gbenga Demuren, a teacher, asked the council to provide notebooks for pupils and pay salaries early. He also wants improvement in other areas.

"There are many roads in Mafoluku and Shogunle that are very bad," he said. "Since they are doing other areas they should add that one to their budget for next year."

Needing attention

In October, workers from the council began digging up the ground in the area. Later, some pipes were laid for the proposed community borehole projects. It was at this point that residents were informed of the plan to supply water to certain parts of the neighbourhood.

However, since the pipes went into the ground, work has stopped on the project. Now, the residents are confused about what to do with the gaping holes in the ground.

"We were happy when the work started, but now we don't know what is happening," said Bode Ogungbemi, a student. "There are more cars passing on this street (Inasa Street) now because of Christmas shopping and many of them have problems with the holes."

NEXT was unable to get Mr. Balogun's plans for 2010, as his press secretary was not available at the secretariat.