BY HON. OLUWATUYI OMOLOYE
In the eloquent verses of Birago Diop’s poem “Vanity,” fundamental questions echo the struggles faced by citizens, urging us to confront the deeper issues at play. Diop poignantly asks:
“If we tell, gently, gently
All that we shall one day have to tell,
Who then will hear our voices without laughter,
Sad complaining voices of beggars?
Who indeed will hear them without laughter?”
These words reverberate powerfully among the residents of Ijoka, a burgeoning community in Akure South Local Government of Ondo State. For nearly a decade, they have endured uncertainty over the status of a dualized road project, left to wonder if their aspirations would ever be realized or if the initiative had been abandoned altogether.
However, the persistent pleas and lamentations of the Ijoka community did not fall on deaf ears. On Tuesday, October 28, 2025, in a State Executive Meeting led by the people’s governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Ayedatiwa, a significant decision was made: the review and approval of the road project for immediate completion.
This announcement has ignited a wave of joy amongst the people of Ijoka, young and old, men and women alike, from students to business professionals, as if the project had already been completed. It signals the transformative power of a responsive and attentive leader.
“When the righteous are in power, the people will rejoice.” Governor Aiyedatiwa, despite the rumors surrounding the project, chose to embrace a path of integrity and accountability. He listened to the cries of Ijoka, affirming his commitment to public welfare and responsible governance.
As we move forward with the Ijoka Road Project, it is crucial to establish robust monitoring mechanisms through the Project and Performance Management Unit (PPMU) and the Ministry of Works. This will ensure that funds are only disbursed to the contractor upon satisfactory completion of work, as validated by the inspection teams from these agencies.
In expressing our heartfelt gratitude to Governor Ayedatiwa for heeding the calls of our community, it is worth noting that involving respected members of Ijoka with proven integrity in the oversight process would further enhance accountability. Their insights would provide invaluable feedback to the government at every stage of the project, safeguarding against any shortcomings in implementation.
Hon. Omoloye Oluwatuyi
Writes from Ijoka, Akure
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