Recall that Aregbesola initiated massive road projects in Osun State. He inherited dilapidated and substandard roads from the previous PDP administration.
In his first year in office, he declared a state of emergency on Osun roads. The governor who doubled as the commissioner for works, launched the rehabilitation and construction of roads across all nooks and crannies of the state.
During this period, the dualisation of major roads in Osogbo commenced: 1. The dualisation of Osogbo to Ilie. 2. Dele-Yes-Sir to Stadium Roundabout (Axis)
These projects were tagged “ONA BABA ONA” (The King of Roads). Aregbesola could not, however, complete the dualisation to their intended destinations, despite his efforts. While he embarked on numerous ambitious projects, his second term saw civil servants adversely affected, and Osun fell into significant debt.
When former Governor Oyetola assumed office, he continued the road projects. Despite grappling with huge debts left by his predecessor, he resumed the dualisation of the Osogbo-Ilie road, which had been suspended at the Kobo-Dagbolu axis, and also continued work on the Dele-Yes-Sir to Stadium Roundabout project. Oyetola extended the asphalt from Dagbolu to Steel Rolling in Ikirun and from Garage Ilesa Roundabout to Stadium Roundabout (one lane).
Even with the challenges of COVID-19 and a reduced FAAC allocation due to inherited debts, Oyetola increased the state’s IGR, ensured regular payment of salaries, released pensions for retirees, and pioneered the Light-Up Osun initiative, which brought streetlights to many parts of the state.
When Adeleke assumed office, he continued some of the projects Oyetola left behind. For instance, the dualisation meant to reach Ilie was stopped at Ikirun. Adeleke also asphalted the second lane from Garage Ilesa Roundabout to Stadium Roundabout but, unfortunately, delivered substandard work. While commissioning the project, Adeleke’s speech failed to acknowledge Oyetola’s contributions, and his followers resorted to ridiculing the former governor, further diminishing their credibility.
Meanwhile, the streetlight project, started by Oyetola, remains incomplete under Adeleke’s administration. Despite an increase in FAAC allocations, Osun State appears to be regressing under Adeleke’s leadership.
Previous administrations prioritized tangible developmental strides: building quality roads, creating job opportunities for the masses, supporting MSMEs, enhancing youth inclusiveness, and improving healthcare systems. In contrast, this administration’s focus seems misaligned with the state’s pressing needs.
What’s the Way Forward?
Osun State deserves leadership that prioritizes sustainable development, continuity, and genuine care for the welfare of its citizens. The current administration must reassess its approach, acknowledge past efforts, and commit to building on the foundations laid by its predecessors. The people deserve nothing less.
