Adeleke unveils 10.4km Osun road

Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has commissioned the 10.4-kilometre Edunabon-Tonkere Road in Ife North Local Government Area of the state.

A statement by the spokesperson to the governor, obtained in Osogbo on Saturday, said the completion of the road ended “over four decades of neglect” and restored a critical road network that connects communities and boosts socio-economic activities in the area.

The spokesperson, Rasheed, added that after the commissioning, the governor held a town hall meeting with traditional rulers from across Ife North Local Government Area.

Speaking on behalf of the monarchs, the Alakinlalu of Akinlalu commended Adeleke’s commitment to development, saying, “When you came and made this promise to us, no one believed you would accomplish what you have done for us today.”

Addressing supporters at a campaign rally in Ipetumodu, Adeleke urged residents not to succumb to intimidation or fear ahead of the forthcoming governorship election.

He assured them that the election would be decided solely by the votes of the people.

“We know that Osun belongs to us. You must be bold, be fearless, and nothing will happen to you,” the governor said.

Adeleke also called on Nigerians and security agencies to uphold democratic values, warning against violence and voter intimidation ahead of the poll.

“Nigeria must be ready to defend democracy. If we truly want to practise democracy, then we must practise it the right way. Police officers who have children of their own are escorting APC thugs to attack and kill people. It is not that we are afraid, but we are deliberately choosing peace.

“They do not want us to vote, but we will use our votes to chase them out of Osun completely. Do not be intimidated or afraid,” the governor stated.

The governor expressed confidence in the outcome of the election, declaring that victory was certain.

“I know we have already won, and by August 15, we will be celebrating,” he said.

Speaking during the visit, the Deputy Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, Akinyode Oyewusi, said Adeleke’s administration had gained acceptance among residents due to its performance.

Oyewusi said the administration had completed 18.2 kilometres of roads across Ife North within two years, describing the projects as evidence of its commitment to inclusive development, economic growth and improved living standards.

He said, “The 10.4-kilometre Edunabon–Tonkere Road is one of the landmark achievements of the administration. The project ended nearly four decades of abandonment and restored a vital transport corridor that has enhanced the movement of people and goods while stimulating economic activities across adjoining communities.

“The completed 3.3-kilometre Akinlalu Junction–Akinlalu Town Road and the 1.5-kilometre Yakooyo–Magistrate Court Road, including the spur to Itamerin, are strategic interventions that have improved accessibility, reduced travel time and strengthened socio-economic activities within the local government.”

Oyewusi added that construction work was ongoing on the 3.3-kilometre Market Square–Tollgate Road in Ipetumodu, assuring residents that more road projects and other critical infrastructure would continue to receive government attention.

The Secretary to the Osun State Government, Teslim Igbalaye, also joined the governor in Ipetumodu after his release from police custody.

Residents of Osun State will vote in the governorship election on Saturday, August 15, with 14 political parties fielding candidates.