Oyo State governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, on Thursday, took a swipe at critics, declaring that local councils in the state are functional and delivering key and tangible projects for the benefit of the people.
He made the affirmation while commissioning a 2km road, a newly constructed fire service station, shops, and an ultra-modern car park at the Bodija International Market, Ibadan.
As contained in a press release by the Special Adviser (Media) to Governor, Dr Sulaimon Olanrewaju, the projects were executed by Ibadan North Local Government Area.
Makinde to critics: Oyo local councils working for the people
Governor Makinde, who named the car park after Ibadan warlord, Balogun Oderinlo, described the projects as clear evidence that local councils in Oyo State were effectively discharging their constitutional responsibilities without interference.
According to him, the initiatives by Ibadan North Local Government Area would boost commercial activities, improve the ease of doing business, and further strengthen the state’s economy.
The governor commended the chairman of Ibadan North Local Government Area, Honourable Seun Olufade, for executing the projects.
Makinde urged traders in the market to continue supporting his administration’s vision for sustainable development.
He assured that more infrastructure projects would be facilitated under his successor.
The governor spoke against the backdrop of insinuations that his administration has rendered local government system and administration ineffective and non-functional in the last seven years.
Governor Makinde validated his position by pointing to the various projects executed by Ibadan North Local Government area and some other local councils across the state.
He challenged critics of his administration over local government administration in the state to point to what they did when they were in office.
In his welcome address, Olufade expressed appreciation to Governor Makinde for providing an enabling environment that allowed the council to successfully deliver the projects.
He noted that the developments would improve transportation, enhance public safety, increase commercial activities, and further position Bodija International Market as a leading commercial hub in Nigeria.
He described the projects as a further proof of the governor’s dedication to improving the lives of residents, calling them a testament to Governor Makinde’s enduring commitment to the people of Oyo State.
Also speaking, one of the contractors, Mr. Adekunle Akinpelu, commended the state government for addressing long-standing infrastructure challenges and improving safety in markets across Oyo State.
He highlighted the construction of the fire station as a landmark achievement, noting that past fire incidents had led to significant losses of property and, in some cases, lives.
The new facility, he said, would help prevent such tragedies and improve emergency response for traders and shoppers.
In their goodwill messages, Chairman of Bodija Market and Otun Iyaloja of Bodija Market, Alhaja Oyebamiji, thanked the governor for approving and supporting the construction of the projects.
They emphasised that the infrastructure would provide greater comfort, safety, and convenience for traders and customers while promoting economic growth within the market and the state.
Delivering the vote of thanks, the Babaloja of Bodija Market, Alhaji Ismael Jimoh, expressed gratitude to the governor for the projects and for ensuring ease of doing business in the state.
The event was attended by Deputy Governor Abdulraheem Bayo Lawal; Hon. Fola Oyekunle (Ibadan North Federal Constituency); Hon. Dikirulahi Olajide Odidiomo (Ibadan North West/South-West Federal Constituency); Hon. Comforter Olajide (Ibadan North I State Constituency);
Hon. Babajide Gabriel (Ibadan North II State Constituency); Secretary to the State Government, Professor Musibau Babatunde; Chief of Staff, Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi, PhD; Head of Service, Dr. (Mrs.) Adenike Fasina, mni;
Elder Wole Oyelese, Co-Chairman of the Elders’ Council, alongside other council members; Hon. Sikiru Sanda, Chairman of Local Government Chairmen in Oyo State; Alhaji Y.K. Abass, Babaloja of Oyo State; market leaders, traditional rulers, and religious leaders, among others.
