The Surulere Alabi Community in Ilorin-West Local Government Area (LGA) of Kwara on Wednesday said it had to resort to self-help when no help was forthcoming from the state government.
The Community Chairman, Alhaji Busari Idris, told newsmen in Ilorin, during the inauguration of seven roads the community upgraded, that they resorted to self-help when there was no one to help.
”Social amenities such as electricity, roads and even water have been a major challenge in our community.
”This is why the community, after several letters of appeal to government and public-spirited individuals, embarked on the collection of levies from all members of the community to find a solution to our problems,” he explained.
Idris went on to disclose that the community recently bought two 500KVA transformers for itself, especially with the setting in of the dry season.
“The community decided to embark on the rehabilitation of some of the roads within it, upgrading seven roads linking the community with other areas.
“They were graded with the money we contributed monthly and we spent N1.3 million in total.
”The grading exercise took place for three days and here we are on the fourth day, opening the roads for use,” he said.
Alhaji Jimoh Alao, the community’s traditional head who is known as Mogaji, commended members of the executive committee of the community’s political leadership for the initiative.
“This is commendable as the community has always taken bold steps at addressing its challenging issues.
“But I will still call on government to assist the community in the construction of drains and tarring of the three major roads which link the community with other neighbouring communities,” he said.
Alao also called on the state government to provide a health care facility within the community.
A member of the community, Mr Fatai Hassan, said residents would now heave a sigh of relief in having unhindered movement to and from the community.(NAN)
