The Ekiti State Government has warned motorists, residents, commuters and other road users along the Ifaki–Eyio–Esure–Igede-Ekiti Road of the commencement of rock blasting activities as part of the ongoing construction and rehabilitation of the road.

The Commissioner for Works, Mr Sola Adebayo, gave the warning in Ado-Ekiti on Monday, urging members of the public to exercise caution and strictly comply with all safety instructions during the blasting operation scheduled for Saturday, September. 12, at designated locations along the road corridor.

Adebayo explained that the rock blasting was necessary to facilitate the construction of the road to meet required engineering standards, adding that the exercise would contribute to the timely completion of the project.

The commissioner advised motorists, farmers and commuters to avoid approaching or staying within the designated blasting areas during the exercise, stressing that the safety of residents and road users remained the priority of the government and the construction team.

He appealed to residents living close to the project corridor to cooperate with contractors and relevant authorities by adhering to temporary restrictions and other safety measures that would be communicated before each blasting operation.

Adebayo assured the public that the exercise would be professionally handled by qualified personnel and carried out in line with approved safety and engineering procedures to minimise risks to lives and property.

He said measures had been put in place to control vehicular and human movement around the blasting locations, noting that traffic officials and other relevant agencies would be deployed to guide road users.

The commissioner appealed to traditional rulers, community leaders, residents, transport operators , farmers and other stakeholders along the corridor to sensitise their people on the need to stay away from the blasting zones and obey all safety directives.

He said the state government appreciated the patience and cooperation of the people of Ekiti, assuring them that the ongoing road projects were being executed to improve transportation, boost economic activities and promote development across the state.

Adebayo urged members of the public to remain calm and cooperate with the authorities, assuring that every necessary precaution would be taken to ensure that the exercise was conducted safely and efficiently.