OYRTMA Replaces Stolen Manhole Covers On Apata Road

The Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA) has replaced stolen manhole covers with durable concrete alternatives at strategic locations along Apata Road in Ibadan to reduce the risk of accidents and protect road users.

The intervention was carried out on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, under the supervision of the OYRTMA Chairman, Major Adesagba Adekoya (rtd.), as part of efforts to address road safety hazards across the metropolis.

Speaking during the exercise, Adekoya said the initiative was part of the agency’s corporate social responsibility, noting that the safety of motorists, pedestrians, commercial motorcyclists and other commuters remained a major priority.

He described uncovered manholes as serious threats to road users, particularly at night and during rainfall, adding that the affected section of Apata Road had reportedly been linked to accidents.

According to him, replacing the stolen metal cover with a concrete one would provide a more durable solution and reduce the risk of vandalism and further theft.

Adekoya appealed to residents to stop vandalising public infrastructure, stressing that the removal of manhole covers not only causes damage to government property but also exposes innocent road users to danger.

He urged members of the public to promptly report uncovered manholes, dangerous potholes, vandalised infrastructure and other road hazards to the relevant authorities for immediate intervention.

The OYRTMA chairman also assured residents that the agency would continue to identify and address traffic-related hazards across the state in collaboration with relevant government agencies and stakeholders.

The Area Commander, Oyo Police Force, represented by ASP Okphor Kingsley, commended OYRTMA for the intervention, saying it would help prevent accidents and protect lives.

Similarly, the Chairman of the Okada Riders Association, BCJ, Unit 3, Apata, Ibadan, Oluwadamilare Ale, thanked the agency for what he described as a timely intervention.

Ale said several lives had reportedly been lost in accidents associated with the dangerous spot, adding that the replacement of the manhole cover had brought relief to residents, commercial motorcyclists and other road users who regularly use the route.