FG launches N297bn Ibadan-Ijebu road project amid Oyo govt protest

The Federal Government officially launched the N297 billion reconstruction of the 56.5km Ibadan-Ijebu-Ode Road in Oyo State on Monday. The ceremony, however, was marred by protests from the Oyo State government, which expressed displeasure over the exclusion of Governor Seyi Makinde.

“

Today demonstrates the flag-off of the 56.5 km Ibadan-Ijebu Ode road. It is more than just a flag-off; it is a connection between the two states economically.

President Bola Tinubu, represented by Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, flagged off the project. Tinubu highlighted the road's significance for economic connectivity between Oyo and Ogun states, emphasizing its role in ameliorating public suffering and boosting the Gross Domestic Product. He assured that the project, handled by JRB Construction Company, would be completed within 36 months, stressing its importance for farmers, manufacturers, and residents who have long depended on the route.

“

Ibadan-Ijebu-Ode is too important for the Federal Government to neglect. The importance of this road extends beyond the boundaries of the states.

The Minister of State for Works, Bello Mohammed, echoed the president's commitment to infrastructural development, noting the project's potential to ease transportation bottlenecks. He urged the region's populace to reciprocate the gesture by voting for Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress in 2027. Minister of Works Dave Umahi described the road as a gift to the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, stemming from a letter the monarch sent to the president. Umahi also mentioned the redesign and ongoing reconstruction of other roads in the region, including the Ibadan-Abeokuta road, with a commitment to completing all projects by 2031.

“

On completion, the road would increase the Gross Domestic Product of the affected states with further attraction of local and foreign investment.