Kwara: How drainage collapse is threatening lives in Idi-Ope Community

By Oluwatoyin Hawal Momolosho –

For over a decade, residents of Idi-Ope in the Olojoku area of Ilorin West Local Government Area, Kwara State, have cried out over the threat posed by an expanding and neglected drainage system. Despite formal complaints, letters to the state government, and a worsening situation that now endangers homes, religious schools, and lives, their appeals have gone unanswered.

In 2014, during the administration of Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed, the community submitted a formal letter requesting immediate intervention. The letter detailed the damage caused by the drainage, particularly to students of Madrasa Thaqofi and residents whose homes were close to the erosion path.

According to the then Community Chairman, Mallam Thaqofi, “The community is requesting the extension and completion of the abandoned concrete drainage. The community will be very grateful if their request is favourably considered. Thanks.”

Unfortunately, over eleven years later, no government intervention has been undertaken.

Drainage expanded beyond control

Residents now describe the drainage as a gully erosion crisis beyond their control. Ibrahim, a longtime resident, explained how manageable the situation once was.

“Seven years ago, even during heavy rainfall, you could still walk through this area without fear. That was the best time for the government to act. But now, it has widened so much that crossing it is dangerous. It’s affecting the foundations of nearby houses, little by little, each time it rains,” he said.

Ibrahim added that the prolonged silence from government authorities has forced the community to devise their own survival strategies. “We’ve kept quiet for too long. It’s our right to speak out, and their duty to listen. Anything that causes discomfort to citizens should be addressed. We just want a collective voice to reach the present Governor, Mallam Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq, so that something can finally be done.”

Abandoned hope after Olojoku Bridge

Another resident, who preferred anonymity, recalled the reconstruction of the nearby Olojoku Bridge over six years ago. Community members had hoped that drainage repairs would be included in the project—but were disappointed.

“When the Olojoku Bridge was done, we thought they would fix the drainage too. Instead, it was abandoned. We are not trying to fight anyone; we’re simply begging the government to see this as a priority. If this drainage is not repaired, it will affect everyone. But if it’s done, it benefits the whole community,” he said.

An urgent cry for intervention

Abdulraheem Horlaitan, a resident of Isale Jagun-Gaa Aremu, emphasized the severity of the erosion. “The Idi-Ope, Olojoku, and Thaqofi gully erosion is threatening homes and lives. If nothing is done soon, this gully will not only swallow our homes—it may take lives,” he said.

He urged the Kwara State Government not to wait for tragedy before responding. “We don’t want sympathy or condolence visits—we want action. Please, let’s build Adewole together before it’s too late.”

Community leader speaks

In response to inquiries about the long-abandoned drainage project, Mr. Ibrahim Abdullateef Akolu, Senior Special Assistant on Communication to the Kwara State Governor, stated that no official information regarding the issue had reached his office, despite numerous social media posts by residents. He emphasized the need to follow proper administrative channels.

“At the moment, I do not have any information regarding the issue in question. However, I advise that concerned individuals should not relent in respectfully calling attention to the matter through appropriate channels. Alternatively, a formal letter can be addressed to the Ministry of Works to request possible action on the project,” he said.

Following his advice, the community and a media representative made further efforts to escalate the issue. Attempts were made to contact Mr. Ladan Babatunde, Chairman of Ilorin West Local Government Area, to inform him about the drainage condition and explore possible intervention.

However, as of the time of compiling this report, there had been no response from Mr. Ladan Babatunde. Despite several phone calls, text messages, and WhatsApp attempts, he has yet to respond or provide any comment on the issue.

The situation remains a source of concern for residents, who continue to urge government intervention to prevent environmental and health hazards in the affected area.