Osun Gov, Adeleke defends, blames opposition for delay in Ile-Ife infrastructure upgrade
Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has justified his administration’s decision to upgrade infrastructure in Ile-Ife and other towns across the state.
Governor Adeleke also said improved infrastructure remained key to fast-tracking economic development in the state.
Speaking in Ile Ife on Wednesday while inspecting the Lagere Flyover Bridge and other ongoing projects, Governor Adeleke described the ancient city as the cultural capital of the Yoruba people, which deserves the best in road and infrastructure development.
He criticised previous administrations for neglecting Ile-Ife and abandoning several projects in the area, stressing that his government was determined to change the narrative.
The governor accused the opposition of deliberately withholding local government allocations meant for Osun State in a bid to halt the completion of critical projects and vowed that his administration would not be deterred.
“I am elated to see rapid progress already recorded in our unprecedented moves to modernise and upgrade Ile Ife. We must think big, aim very high and deliver the best infrastructure and services to our people.”
He added that his government had rejected the “history of abandoned projects and diverted funds. Our mantra of state money for state development is manifesting in Ile Ife, Ilesa, Osogbo, Ede, Ila Orangun, Iwo and other towns.”
Adeleke highlighted the progress on the Ile Ife Flyover, saying the project was nearing completion despite earlier doubts about its necessity, questioning critics who argued that Ile Ife did not need a flyover bridge.
“We have shamed those who thought the funds would be diverted. We broke the jinx by realising the upgrading of our cultural capital.
“Why do you hate Ile Ife so much? Why must it remain under perpetual underdevelopment?” he asked.
The governor who said the flyover was strategically located at the economic hub of Osun East, connecting the western and eastern parts of the state as well as Ondo State, added that it would boost trade and tourism.
“Aside from the economic benefits, Ile Ife holds immense tourism potential. In our creative economy agenda, Ile Ife occupies a prime place as a cultural capital that will attract multi-billion-dollar tourism opportunities in the near future.”