Traffic violators to be tracked through AI – Olawoye

…Says govt won’t compromise standards on roads, housing

By Precious Oluwole

The Ondo State Government has announced plans to deploy artificial intelligence-powered cameras to track and penalise traffic violators, particularly motorists who flout red-light regulations.

The Commissioner for Infrastructure, Lands and Housing, Engr. Abiola Olawoye, disclosed this in an exclusive interview, stating that the initiative forms part of broader efforts to improve road safety and enforce traffic discipline across the state.

According to him, the AI-enabled cameras, currently being installed at major junctions, will automatically capture the registration numbers of vehicles that violate traffic signals and transmit the data to the Ondo State Internal Revenue Service (ODIRS) for enforcement and penalty processing.

“When the signal turns red, it means stop. Unfortunately, some motorists continue to disregard traffic rules. Once the system becomes fully operational, violators will be identified through their vehicle registration numbers, and the information will be forwarded to ODIRS,” Olawoye said.

He noted that the technology-driven enforcement complements recent upgrades at key junctions, including NEPA Roundabout, ShopRite Roundabout and First Bank Roundabout, aimed at enhancing traffic flow and safety.

Beyond traffic management, Olawoye emphasised that the state government remains committed to delivering quality infrastructure without compromising standards for political expediency.

“This administration is not in office to deceive the people of Ondo State. If that were the case, we could have rushed short road projects for quick commissioning. But we are determined to follow proper engineering standards and deliver durable infrastructure,” he stated.

He explained that while the government is aggressively pursuing road expansion and rehabilitation projects across the state, it is also prioritising the development of low-cost housing estates to address accommodation challenges.

However, he acknowledged that land acquisition processes have posed some challenges due to the need to strictly adhere to statutory procedures, including consultations with host communities and payment of compensation where necessary.

“The government cannot assume control of land arbitrarily. Due process must be followed. We are engaging stakeholders and ensuring that all legal requirements are met,” he said.

Providing updates on ongoing projects, the commissioner highlighted significant progress on major road corridors, including the Akure–Idanre dual carriageway, Akungba–Ikare dual carriageway, Okitipupa–Igbokoda road, Omotosho–Iju-Odo road and the Akure–Imafo road, among others.

He added that 60 kilometres of overlay works are ongoing across the 18 local government areas of the state, with projects spread across the southern, central and northern senatorial districts.

Olawoye urged residents to support government efforts by complying with traffic regulations and refraining from dumping refuse into drainage channels, warning that blocked drains contribute to flooding during heavy rainfall.

He reiterated that contractors handling various projects are working within approved timelines and assured residents that the administration remains focused on responsible, transparent and standard-driven infrastructure delivery.