ILESA, Osun State — Residents and community leaders in Ilesa and Ibokun have commended Governor Ademola Adeleke’s ongoing N250 billion infrastructure plan, saying it is not only modernising their local government areas but also curbing youth thuggery and boosting the local economy.
Speaking during a public assessment of the projects, the Oyebon of Ibotoro in Ibokun Local Government, Oba Samson Aderibigbe, described Adeleke as “a dependable son of the soil” who has brought long-awaited development to the area.
“Road construction never existed here before. Since he came to power, look at how good this community is,” the monarch said.
“He started the construction from Ibotoro to Ada to Agba to Ororuwo. There is no part of Ibokun Local Government where his projects have not been noticed. He has made us comfortable in Osun.”
In Ilesa, residents say investments in roads and public infrastructure are directly impacting security and livelihoods.
“In terms of infrastructural facilities, it’s very good. It has brought a lot of development to the masses,” said Ibrahim Olawale, a local resident.
“Before now, we used to see thugs along the road, but the government has engaged many of them. They help keep pedestrians safe. This has reduced thuggery and even accidents. Akewusola Junction used to record frequent crashes, but since the road was expanded and street lights installed, such incidents have stopped.”
For traders, better roads are translating into better business.
A commodity dealer from Ogbon Titun Okesa, Ilesa, Mrs. Akinola Bolanle, said previously unemployed youths are now finding meaningful work on project sites and in newly opened shops.
“Before, we had a lot of thugs in this environment, but now they have reduced,” she said. “This road has helped us greatly. I even bought my shop when construction started, and because the area is now more open and organised, sales have improved.”
Farmers in Ibokun are also feeling the impact. Mr. Gbadebo, from Oke Oye Street, said the new road network has transformed their daily lives and market access.
“His works are in our favour. Even if he wants to go for a third term, I’m pleased with it,” he joked. “This road was done for us when no one believed it would happen. We want more help with farming supplements to make life easier. He gave us fertilisers before, and we get them at the King’s palace.”
As work continues under the N250 billion plan, residents in Ilesa and Ibokun say they are eager to see more projects, particularly in agriculture support and community-level infrastructure, to consolidate what they describe as long-awaited progress.
