Governor Dapo Abiodun has ignited a firestorm of criticism with his directive demanding stricter technical standards for a federally awarded road project in Sagamu.

The Paddy Arikawe Oye-Igbimo Road, contracted to Minim and Tonye Nigeria Limited by the Border Communities Development Agency (BCDA), is under intense scrutiny, with critics accusing Abiodun of hypocrisy and overreach, citing the poor quality of roads built under his administration.

In a letter from the Ogun State Ministry of Works and Infrastructure, signed by Permanent Secretary Engr. Dr. Yusuf L.O., the state flagged deficiencies in the contractor’s proposal.

The ministry noted that while documents like the award letter and cross-sectional drawings were submitted, the contractor failed to specify the exact road stretch, including its start and end points relative to the Oba-Erinwole Road.

Abiodun’s directive mandated reinforced concrete pavements of at least Grade 35, preferably Grade 40, rejecting the proposed Grade 20; a stone base thickness of 150 mm minimum, preferably 200 mm; reinforcement bars with a high-yield tensile strength of at least 460 N/mm²; and compliance with Federal Ministry of Works standards, including detailed drawings and material testing plans. The letter demanded “prompt compliance,” signalling tight oversight.

Critics have slammed the move, noting that the BCDA, a federal agency under the Presidency, awarded the contract, with funding signed into law by President Bola Tinubu.

“Why is Abiodun interfering in a federal project?” an X user questioned, suggesting political motives tied to tensions with former governor Otunba Gbenga Daniel (OGD), who facilitated the project as a senator.

The loudest criticism targets Abiodun’s own infrastructure record. Critics point to state-built roads like Iperu Road and Ilishan Road, which they claim failed soon after construction.