By Gbenga Sodeinde in Ado Ekiti
The Member representing Ekiti Central Federal Constituency II in the House of Representatives, Biodun Omoleye, has flagged off the rehabilitation of three key township roads in Aramoko Ekiti, describing the project as a significant step toward delivering the dividends of democracy and improving the quality of life of residents.
The roads flagged off include Ijofi Road, Ijowa Road, and Architect Fola Alade Road located at Oke Amututu in Aramoko Ekiti.
Speaking during the flag-off ceremony in the ancient town, Omoleye said the intervention followed sustained engagement with residents who had repeatedly demanded improvements to the roads.
He explained that the contractor handling the project had already mobilised equipment to the sites and expressed confidence that the work would be delivered within the stipulated timeframe.
“This is Aramoko Ekiti, the city of peace, and we are here today to flag off the rehabilitation of township roads. We have visited the various project locations and I am happy with what I am seeing. It shows that we are truly interfacing with the people and responding directly to their needs,” he said.
Omoleye assured residents that the rehabilitation work would be completed within 60 days, adding that the project would not only improve transportation but also enhance the economic and social life of the community.
According to him, the roads had remained in poor condition for decades despite their importance to the movement of residents and commercial activities within the town.
“When I moved around during my campaign, the people made it clear that these roads were among their most pressing needs.
Some of these roads have existed for decades without proper asphalt. This project is therefore part of our commitment to bring development closer to the people and give them a sense of inclusion in governance,” he stated.
The lawmaker described the initiative as a federal government intervention and assured the community that the contractor had the capacity and modern equipment required to deliver a durable and high-quality project.
He also disclosed that streetlights would be installed on the roads upon completion of the rehabilitation work to enhance security, beautify the environment and support commercial activities at night.
“As soon as the roads are completed, we will install streetlights to improve security and further beautify the town. This will also encourage economic activities, especially during the night,” he added.
Omoleye, however, urged residents to take ownership of the project by ensuring proper maintenance of the infrastructure, particularly by keeping drainage channels free of blockages and avoiding activities that could damage the road.
“We appeal to the people not to block the drainage channels and not to cut the roads unnecessarily. If there is a need for speed breakers or any adjustment, they should interface with the contractor so that it can be done properly and professionally,” he advised.
The federal lawmaker further emphasised that development efforts between federal and state authorities were complementary rather than competitive, noting that he works in collaboration with the Ekiti State Government to advance development across the constituency.
“There is no division between us. We work together and the governor is aware of what we are doing. Aramoko deserves the best and we must continue to work together to make the town more beautiful and more developed,” he said.
In his remarks, a community leader, Chief Emmanuel Oyebade, the Sajowa of Aramoko, commended Omoleye for initiating the project, describing it as a long-awaited intervention that has brought joy to the people of the community.
He noted that residents were delighted by the commencement of the rehabilitation work and pledged that the community would take responsibility for protecting and maintaining the roads.
“This is the kind of project we have been waiting for for a very long time. You can see the smiles on the faces of our people. We are very happy to witness this development in our community,” he said.
Chief Oyebade also urged residents to heed the lawmaker’s advice by ensuring proper maintenance of the roads and avoiding activities that could damage the infrastructure.
“We will make sure the drainage channels are kept clean and that no one damages the roads. Our traditional leaders and community members will work together to ensure the project stands the test of time,” he added.
Comrade Afuye Idowu
CEO: ISA POL COMMUNICATIONS & CONSULTANCY FIRM
