Connect with us

Politics

Lagos/Iwo Road Interchange: S/West PDP salutes Makinde, says APC’s criticism misplaced, in bad faith

Published

on

The South-West Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has commended the decision of the Governor of Oyo State, Engineer Seyi Makinde, to reconstruct the Iwo Road Interchange, saying that the bold move was a show of courage by Makinde.

The South-West PDP, in a statement by the Zonal Publicity Secretary, Mr. Ayo Fadaka, said that the planned reconstruction was “well-thought-out and a reflection of governance with people’s interest at its core.”

He said that the road has become problematic for motorists and road users for years, adding that the criticism by the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) was not only misplaced but mischievous.

The South-West PDP chapter said that the courage exhibited by Governor Makinde to reconstruct the interchange would provide a lasting solution to the perennial traffic logjam around Iwo Road.

The party also took a swipe at the APC, which criticised the planned reconstruction, noting that the party was merely showcasing itself as enemy of the people.

“Rather than exhibiting progressive ideas in line with the name of that party, the APC in Oyo State have only showcased its true colours as a regressive, anti-people and a bullying party that needs education on how to play responsible opposition politics,” the PDP said.

The statement further reads: “We take due cognizance of the decision of the Oyo State Government to reconstruct the Lagos/Iwo Road interchange in Ibadan and strongly commend Governor Seyi Makinde for the courage to immediately tackle a road that, for years, has remained a traffic challenge to those who commute on it. Residents and visitors to the prime city of South-West, Ibadan have suffered untold losses as a result of the traffic snare on the Iwo Road axis.

“We also note that the APC in Oyo State has risen in arms against this laudable project, anchoring its opposition on two major planks, that the Governor chose to announce the execution of the project when he attended a Jumat service in a mosque  and that the corridor falls within the two Federal Road which are to be reconstructed.

“Much as we feel that these planks are infantile and ridiculous, we feel challenged to address them, as our explanations will provide a proper education for the mindset of the APC handlers in Oyo State.

“First, the new road project is expansive and it will consume so many existing properties, both public and private, thus Governor Makinde decided to meet with stakeholders to explain the rationale for the execution of the project, seek their understanding and support for same.

“This approach of course is strange to the APC in Oyo State as it is a remarkable departure from the garrulity and bullying tactics of the immediate past governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, who would have dared anyone to challenge the “constituted authority” 

“Secondly, the thinking that the contract sum is bogus failed to take into cognizance the fact that the road project is not intended to be a mere “window dressing” but one that is designed to be durable and withstand challenges that consume roads in Nigeria easily. Again, it is a fact that multibillion properties will be destroyed, therefore, ‘Seyi Makinde’s government, being a responsive and responsible government, will pay compensations to citizens and organizations that will be affected.

“We are also worried that the APC was equating the reconstruction of Ibadan/Ile-Ife Expressway and the Lagos/ Ibadan Expressway with the much needed succour desired to bring the traffic snare in Iwo Road to an end.”

The PDP urged the Oyo APC to ditch its puerile approach to playing opposition politics, noting that its handlers needed to be schooled on how to be a responsible opposition party in the State, a role which it noted that Oyo PDP played effectively for eight years, which led to the loss of the APC in the March 9, 2019 election.

“We wish to state that we understand the current plight of the APC in Oyo State as wanting to provide credible opposition to government. However, its puerile approach and obvious limited understanding of issues remain a grievous hindrance to the fulfilment of that responsibility. We, therefore, offer to train their handlers free of charge, as part of our corporate social responsibility,” the party said.

Comments

Politics

APC knocks Makinde over UN probe call on Oriire abductions

Published

on

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State yesterday faulted Governor Seyi Makinde’s call on the United Nations (UN) to investigate the circumstances surrounding the recent killings, abductions and rescue of 46 victims in Oriire Local Government Area, describing the move as “shameful, shocking and unbecoming of a leader.”

The opposition party accused the governor of politicising insecurity and attempting to internationalise what it called a domestic security challenge.

Makinde, while receiving the rescued victims at the Government House, Ibadan, on Monday, urged the United Nations and international human rights organisations to conduct an independent investigation into the incident, saying the circumstances surrounding the attacks and rescue operation were “grave and unusual.”

The governor’s position came days after he alleged during a visit to Bauchi State that the attacks on Ahoro Esiele and Yawota communities were orchestrated by individuals opposed to his alleged 2027 presidential ambition.

But in a statement by its Publicity Secretary, Olawale Sadare, the APC said the governor’s position was a demonstration of “ineptitude, cluelessness and grandstanding.”

The party urged Makinde to be “circumspect, decorous and statesman-like” as he prepares to complete his tenure.

It alleged that insecurity had worsened in Oyo State under the present administration, claiming the state had become the worst affected by banditry in Southern Nigeria.

The APC also criticised the governor’s appeal to the United Nations, arguing that Article 2(7) of the UN Charter discourages external interference in the domestic affairs of sovereign nations.
According to the party, rather than calling for an international investigation, the governor should focus on addressing the security challenges confronting residents of the state.

The opposition party further challenged Makinde to submit himself to investigations over allegations relating to local government funds, the Bodija explosion relief fund, surveillance aircraft procurement, airport and stadium upgrade projects, among other transactions.

The APC, however, did not provide evidence to substantiate the allegations.
As of press time, the Oyo State Government had not responded to the APC’s latest claims

Continue Reading

Politics

2027: Bunvic Has Edge in Surulere/Ogo-Oluwa Reps Race – Agbomojo

Published

on

A political observer and public affairs commentator in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Oladejo Ezekiel Agbomojo, has said former member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Olusegun Dokun Odebunmi, popularly known as Bunvic, is currently better positioned than other aspirants to reclaim the Surulere/Ogo-Oluwa Federal Constituency seat in the 2027 general election.

Agbomojo, who is from Ogbomoso North Local Government Area of Oyo State, stressed that he is not a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), saying his position was based on his independent assessment of the political atmosphere in the constituency and feedback gathered from residents, community leaders and other stakeholders.

Speaking on political developments ahead of the 2027 general election, Agbomojo said Bunvic’s experience, grassroots acceptance and long-standing relationship with the people had given him an advantage over other aspirants seeking to represent the constituency in the House of Representatives.

According to him, the former lawmaker’s previous tenure in the Green Chamber provided him with the legislative experience and understanding required to address the developmental needs of the constituency.

He also identified Bunvic’s relationship with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as one of his major political strengths, expressing optimism that such ties could facilitate the attraction of more federal projects, appointments and developmental opportunities to Surulere/Ogo-Oluwa Federal Constituency if elected.

Agbomojo further commended Yeyeluwa Toyin Odebunmi, wife of the APC candidate, describing her as a compassionate woman whose humanitarian interventions have continued to earn admiration across the constituency and beyond.

He said her empowerment and outreach programmes have impacted women, youths, students and other vulnerable groups in different communities, adding that her activities have complemented her husband’s political efforts and further strengthened his acceptance among the electorate.

He also attributed Bunvic’s growing political advantage to what he described as renewed unity within the APC.

According to him, the cordial relationship between Bunvic and respected party leaders, including Senator Ayo Adeseun, as well as the emergence of the APC deputy governorship candidate from Surulere/Ogo-Oluwa Federal Constituency, had further boosted the party’s prospects ahead of the 2027 elections.

Describing Bunvic as one of the most accessible and generous politicians in the Ogbomoso zone, Agbomojo said the former lawmaker had remained close to the people and consistently demonstrated a willingness to support individuals and communities whenever the opportunity arose. He added that his interactions with residents across the constituency indicated a growing belief that Bunvic deserved another opportunity to represent them at the Green Chamber.

“I am not speaking as an APC member because I am not one. This is simply my personal opinion based on what I have observed and the views I have heard from many people across Surulere/Ogo-Oluwa,” he said.

“From my interactions with residents, many believe Bunvic has the experience, the political connections and the grassroots support needed to represent the constituency effectively once again,” he added.

While expressing confidence in Bunvic’s chances, Agbomojo urged the former lawmaker to place greater emphasis on tackling youth unemployment if elected. He acknowledged Bunvic’s previous empowerment initiatives but maintained that sustainable job creation should remain one of his major priorities.

“Hon. Bunvic has done well in supporting young people through different empowerment initiatives, and I acknowledge those efforts. However, I want him to place even greater emphasis on employment generation because many of our youths are still searching for jobs. Creating sustainable employment opportunities should remain one of his major priorities if elected,” he said.

Agbomojo also called for increased Federal Government presence in Surulere/Ogo-Oluwa Federal Constituency through the establishment of more federal institutions, infrastructure projects and programmes capable of creating jobs and stimulating economic growth. He said attracting more federal projects would not only improve residents’ standard of living but also create opportunities for young people and local businesses.

“I strongly believe Hon. Bunvic has what it takes to attract meaningful federal projects because of his experience, his relationships within government and his understanding of the needs of our people. What Surulere/Ogo-Oluwa Federal Constituency needs now is greater federal presence, improved infrastructure and more employment opportunities for our youths,” he stressed  while maintaining that his views were entirely personal.

He, however, said the electorate would have the final say, urging political actors to conduct peaceful, issue-based campaigns that would promote the development and prosperity of Surulere/Ogo-Oluwa Federal Constituency.

Continue Reading

Politics

Oyo: Makinde presents staff of office to new Alakufo of Akufo

Published

on

The Oyo State Government on Friday presented the staff and instruments of office to the new Alakufo of Akufo in Ido Local Government Area,  Engr. Lamidi Taoreed Ayankojo Adefisoye.

The presentation, held at the Ido Local Government Secretariat, followed the approval of Adefisoye’s appointment by Governor Seyi Makinde.

A memo dated June 24, 2026, from the state Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, titled “Re: Filling of Vacant Stool of Alakufo,” conveyed the governor’s approval.

The memo, with reference number CB141/152/4T/119 and signed by the Director of Chieftaincy Matters, Mr Kola Abiola, on behalf of the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Ademola Ojo, stated that the appointment took effect from October 23, 2023.

It read in part, “I am directed to inform you with great pleasure that His Excellency, Engr. Seyi Makinde, the Executive Governor of Oyo State, has graciously approved your appointment as the Alakufo of Akufo with effect from October 23, 2023.”

The staff of office was presented to the monarch by the Chairman of Ido Local Government, Sheriff Aderemi Adeojo, alongside Abiola, who represented the state government.

Dignitaries at the ceremony included the Head of Local Government Administration in Ido, Alhaji Sarafadeen; the Director of Chieftaincy Matters in the council, Mr Adelu; the head of the Adefisoye family, Mogaji Nurudeen Adegbola Adefisoye; the head of the Okekegan family of Akufo, Asiwaju Tunde Black; and Alhaji AbdulAzeez AbdulSalam.

Speaking after receiving the staff of office, Adefisoye expressed appreciation to Makinde, the Deputy Governor, Bayo Lawal, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Ademola Ojo, and the Ido Local Government chairman for their support.

He also thanked the Ministry of Justice, the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, and all those who contributed to the successful completion of the selection process.

The monarch expressed gratitude to the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, and members of the Olubadan-in-Council for their support throughout the process.

He pledged to work closely with the state and local governments while promoting peace and development in the community.

Adefisoye promised to prioritise infrastructure, healthcare, education, agriculture, youth and women empowerment, investment, security, transportation, and the preservation of Akufo’s cultural heritage.

He called on indigenes of the community, both at home and abroad, to unite in support of efforts aimed at accelerating the development of the town.

“I accept this honour with humility and a deep commitment to serve. This is not my vision alone; it is our collective mission. I invite all sons and daughters of Akufo, at home and abroad, to join hands with me in building a peaceful, united and prosperous community for future generations,” he said.

Continue Reading

Advertisement

Entertainment

Advertisement

MegaIcon Magazine Facebook Page

Advertisement

MEGAICON TV

Advertisement

Trending