The Chairman of Orolu Local Government Area, Ifon-Osun, Hon. Abolade Adekunle, has declared that grassroots development will serve as a panacea to end the long-standing communal dispute in the area.
Hon. Adekunle said the ongoing road grading initiative and other developmental projects would help strengthen communal peace and bring lasting solutions to the crisis.
“On security, I can assure you that the massive grassroots development ongoing in my council and other local government areas will bring lasting solutions to communal clashes in this area,” he said.
Recall that the 30 local government areas and Ife-East Area Office in Osun have embarked on road grading across the state to ease transportation and boost socio-economic activities.
Speaking at the official flag-off ceremony in Ifon-Osun, the council chairman lauded residents for their support since his return to office.
He attributed the successful implementation of people-oriented programmes in the council to the autonomy granted to local governments under the administration of Pres. Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The council boss commended the Tinubu administration for efforts at strengthening the third tier of government and pledged to run an inclusive and participatory administration.
“Firstly, we thank Almighty Allah for the opportunity to witness this day. We remain grateful to Pres. Bola Ahmed Tinubu; the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr Adegboyega Oyetola; the APC governorship candidate, Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji (AMBO); and the State Chairman of the party, Sooko Tajudeen Lawal, among others, for their roles in ensuring good governance at the grassroots in Osun State.
“This is one of the greatest opportunities I have had. This road has been in a deplorable state for over 25 years. To be part of its rehabilitation is worth celebrating.
“As a responsive government, we have several projects that will impact the lives of our people. This includes the ongoing road grading across communities.
“We will soon commence the distribution of motorcycles to security agencies in the council to strengthen their operations and improve safety.
“We also plan to launch a large-scale empowerment programme where thousands will benefit. We are committed to improving education, health, agriculture and infrastructure through the provision of social amenities.
“We are determined to restore the lost glory of our council and improve governance at the grassroots. This is just the beginning,” he added.
In separate remarks, residents across communities where the grading exercise has taken place commended the initiative.
Alhaji Oyewole Abdul-Wahab, Mrs Taiwo Bolarinwa, Dr Rasheed Oyedele, Mr Adejumo Jamiu Adewuyi, Mrs Raimot Oladele and Mr Najeem Bashiru expressed gratitude for the rehabilitation of roads that were previously in poor condition.