The Osun Masterminds, a civil society group based in Osun State, has advised Governor Ademola Adeleke against proceeding with the construction of two flyovers in Osogbo, the state capital, as originally planned. Instead, the group has recommended that the funds allocated for these flyovers should be redirected towards expanding and improving the road network across the state.
During a monthly media parley organized by the group in Osogbo, the Executive Director of The Osun Masterminds, Prof. Wasiu Oyedokun-Alli, expressed concerns about the deteriorating state of critical road infrastructure in the state. He called on the governor to take immediate action to prevent further decay.
While acknowledging that some major roads fall under the jurisdiction of the Federal Government, Oyedokun-Alli urged the state government to collaborate with federal agencies to maintain the sections of these roads within the state.
Regarding the proposed construction of flyovers at Oke-Fia and Old Garage areas in Osogbo, Oyedokun-Alli offered an alternative suggestion. He recommended that the state government consider dualizing the LAMECO – Oke-Fia – Old Garage stretch of road and installing traffic signalization at strategic points. This, he argued, would alleviate traffic congestion more efficiently and at a lower cost than constructing flyovers.
The group emphasized that, given the current state of Osun’s finances and the urgency of addressing infrastructure needs, prioritizing the widening of major roads in towns like Ikirun, Iwo, Ilesa, Ejigbo, and Ila-Orangun would be a more prudent use of funds. These towns, it pointed out, face significant traffic challenges due to narrow roads, posing risks to lives and property.
In response to the group’s recommendations, the Osun State Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Mr. Kolapo Alimi, expressed the government’s willingness to consider advice and counsel, particularly when it is impartial and devoid of political bias. Alimi also assured the public that the administration has a comprehensive infrastructure plan with a sustainable funding model designed to facilitate economic growth and development in the state. He emphasized that the flyover projects in Osogbo are part of this plan and will not place an undue burden on the state’s finances.