Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has pledged to complete the ongoing Oyo-Gbongan road project to improve travel convenience and boost business activities across the state.
Speaking through the Commissioner for Water Resources, Hon. Sunday Oroniyi, at the Iwo Progressive Group (IPG) Day 2024 in Iwo, the governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the well-being of Osun State residents. He assured the gathering that efforts are in place to ensure the timely completion of the project, which he described as crucial for enhancing economic development.
Governor Adeleke emphasized that politics in Osun and Nigeria should be conducted without bitterness or acrimony. He noted that the road project is not politically motivated but aimed at serving the interests of Osun State citizens. He also praised the Iwo Progressive Group as an essential platform for fostering political unity in the state.
In his address, the governor assured Iwo residents of his unwavering love and dedication to the town’s progress.
The President of the Iwo Progressive Group, Agba Akin Tayo Giwa, lauded Governor Adeleke’s administration for prioritizing the Oyo-Gbongan road project. He, however, urged the governor to expedite the construction process for the benefit of the community.
Agba Akin Tayo further highlighted the importance of unity among Nigerian politicians, stressing that collaboration and mutual respect are vital for national development. He noted that the IPG has awarded scholarships to deserving Iwo indigenes in secondary schools and higher institutions, reflecting its commitment to community empowerment.
Delivering a lecture titled “Politics Without Bitterness: A Panacea for the Development of Iwo”, Dr. Lekan Asifat, a retired executive secretary of the Osun State Civil Service, called on politicians to embrace ethical practices in their engagements.
Dr. Asifat warned against the destructive tendencies of politicians who harbor bitterness towards their opponents, attributing such behavior to a lack of ethical understanding. Drawing inspiration from Hellen Keller, he stated that embracing love and unity in politics is essential for Iwo’s development in all spheres.
The event was graced by several prominent personalities, including the Rector of the Federal Polytechnic Ayede Ogbomoso, Engr. Dr. Taofeek Adekunle Abdul-Hameed, former Secretary to the Osun State Government, Alhaji Fatai Akinbade, representatives of the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrasheed Akanbi, and the Olupo of Olupona, Senator Lere Oriolowo, legal luminaries, and other notable Iwo indigenes.
The Iwo Progressive Group Day 2024 was a resounding call for unity, ethical politics, and community development, with Governor Adeleke’s promises further cementing hope for progress in Iwo and Osun State at large.