JOURNAL OF LIAONING TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY

DECAYING ROAD TRANSPORTATION INFRASTRUCTURE AND COMMUTERS' SECURITY IN ONDO STATE, NIGERIA

Babatope Andrew OGUNDARE (PhD), Majekodunmi Olusesan IBITOYE (PhD), & Akeem Olalekan BELLO

Abstract

The provision of efficient and economically viable transportation infrastructure stands as a primary objective for any responsive and accountable government. Regrettably, minimal positive changes have been observed, hindering societal improvement. Without a reliable transportation system, the pursuit of economic development remains an elusive goal. Consequently, this study addresses the challenges associated with the deteriorating state of transportation infrastructure in Nigeria, focusing on the resulting security threats to Nigerians, especially commuters on the roads of Ondo State. The study adopts the Human Security Theory and gathers data from both primary and secondary sources. Primary data are derived from questionnaires, while secondary data encompass journals, books, archival materials, newspapers, and magazines. A total of six hundred questionnaires were randomly distributed to commuters on the four major routes connecting Akure to Edo, Ekiti, Osun, and Ogun States. The collected data underwent analysis using descriptive and inferential statistics, revealing a substantial correlation between poor road conditions and heightened insecurity for commuters on Ondo State roads. In light of these findings, the study advocates for a considerable allocation from national and state budgets specifically dedicated to road construction and maintenance.

Keywords: Road, Transportation, Infrastructure, Insecurity, Commuters