By tf-lawyer.com In a recent interview, Yinka Oyebode discussed the inauguration of significant infrastructure projects by Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji in the Ikole Local Government Area. During the event, Governor Oyebanji unveiled the Ikole Township road and the Ilumoba-Ijesa Isu-Ikole 33kVA electricity project, emphasizing the impact of expanding land for commercial agriculture on reducing kidnappings in the area.
Governor Oyebanji expressed his administration’s commitment to enhancing power and road infrastructure while prioritizing agriculture. He aims to ensure food security, create economic opportunities, optimize land use, and promote industrialization.
The event provided local residents and leaders a chance to share their thoughts on the Oyebanji administration. Many traditional rulers and community members praised the transformative policies and initiatives introduced over the past two years and unanimously endorsed the Governor for a second term during their speeches at the commissioning ceremony in Ikole Ekiti.
During the inauguration, Governor Oyebanji, who took a hands-on approach by personally launching the projects, highlighted that the Ikole Township Road was a continuation of the progress initiated by his predecessor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi. He noted that the successful completion of the electricity project showcases his administration’s determination to stimulate social and economic activities in the area.
The Governor highlighted the importance of the Ikole council area, which is home to the state’s Special Agriculture Processing Zone (SAPZ) and has attracted investments from both the government and private sectors. He explained that expanding agricultural land not only contributes to economic growth but has also helped mitigate crime rates in the region, particularly kidnapping. He encouraged more residents to engage in agriculture, assuring them of government support.
Additionally, Oyebanji urged local citizens to seize investment opportunities in the Agriculture Processing Zone and committed to providing the necessary infrastructure to make Ekiti attractive to investors and improve living conditions. He called on communities to safeguard the newly inaugurated projects against vandalism, noting the significant resources invested in them.
Addressing concerns regarding non-functioning transformers in certain areas, the Governor explained that the inauguration was just the first step, and remaining issues would be addressed. He assured residents that fair compensation would be provided for any land utilized for development and confirmed that those still awaiting compensation in the agriculture processing zone would receive it.
Governor Oyebanji also informed attendees that the contractor responsible for the Isinbode-Ara-Ikole Road would soon start rehabilitation work on the Oke Ako-Ipao-Irele Road, citing its significance as an access route to SAPZ. He mentioned that the contractor for Ado-Iluomoba Road would begin work the following week, with plans to extend the project to Ikole.
In closing, the Governor urged the people of the Ikole council area to collaborate with his administration in future endeavors, assuring them that their local representatives are effectively contributing to governance. Reflecting on the administration’s local impact, Oyebanji stated, “This local government hosts our Special Agriculture Processing Zone. We thank our Obas for their support and cooperation, and we’ll address compensation issues.
He reiterated, “By opening up more land for agriculture, we have reduced kidnappings in this area. We are investing in our grassroots economy to support local artisans, traders, small business owners, and more. Furthermore, we are working with our National Assembly members to ensure that all deteriorating federal roads are repaired. We’re currently utilizing Ekiti’s resources for the Ado-Ifaki Road, which is a federal road. However, without reimbursement, we cannot continue to spend our funds on these roads, hence our collaboration with the National Assembly.”
