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From Lateef Dada, Osogbo
Residents of Ile-Ife in Osun State have praised Governor Ademola Adeleke for his strides in infrastructure development within the community and have pledged their support for his re-election.
Prominent indigenes of Ife conducted a project inspection on Monday, expressing their satisfaction with the progress of ongoing works in the town.
Professor Adewale Oladipupo, former national secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and chairman of the Imole campaign council in Osun, commended Adeleke’s efforts, stating that the ongoing public works are beneficial to small businesses in the area.
He explained how projects have boosted local commerce, particularly for vendors selling consumables, saying “The fact that public works are ongoing has attracted small businesses, particularly in edibles like Boli, groundnuts, and pure water. A lot has picked up, and it’s part of our economy,” Oladipupo said.
He recalled initial hesitance regarding the construction of a flyover in the ancient city, noting, “A few people were scared because it’s a novel idea. Historically, Ile-Ife was one of the five major cities in the world a thousand years ago, but rapid urbanization in other areas has overshadowed it.”
He emphasized the importance of maintaining Iremo Road, stating, “The bridge would have been meaningless if Iremo Road had been neglected as the previous government left it. It would have been better if they hadn’t touched that area in the past.”
Chief Idowu Adediwura, the Obalufe, who spoke on behalf of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, expressed appreciation for Adeleke’s contributions and highlighted the significance of the road projects for promoting local culture.
“We appreciate our governor for what he has done thus far in Ile-Ife. With these good roads, our culture will be better promoted. He promised us three new roads when we visited him in Osogbo, and I trust he will fulfill that promise, Adediwura stated.”
Owolabi Elizabeth, a local trader, noted the ongoing construction’s temporary negative impact on sales but expressed optimism regarding future benefits after completion. “This construction is affecting us now, but I believe that once it’s completed, there will be a positive impact, particularly in increased sales,” she said.
