The Senior Special Assistant to the Ondo State Governor on Strategic Communications, Allen Sowore Esq., has reacted to the uproar over the Oke Aro/Idanre road dualization, describing it as a move by some noble men to sneer at Governor Lucky Ayedatiwa.
In a statement titled, “Oke-Aro/Idanre Road: When It’s Profitable to Criticize Governor Aiyedatiwa,” Sowore said “the vision is to build a modern road linking Akure, the state capital, with Idanre, a natural tourism hub renowned for its breathtaking mountains and unique landscape.
He continued:
“The new road is designed with dual carriageways (9.3 metres wide each), 1.5-metre walkways on both sides, a 3-metre utility bay, lined drains, medians, and traffic lights at strategic intersections.”
“The flag-off ceremony, held at the Arakale–Oke-Aro Junction in Akure, marked the commencement of Phase 1 of the project—from Cashhold Junction to KM10 along the Akure–Idanre corridor.”
“Beyond its tourism potential, the road is vital to Ondo State’s economic growth, especially in facilitating the movement of people and agricultural produce between Idanre and Akure.”
“For years, commuters have endured endless frustration on this route. But Governor Aiyedatiwa has set out to change that story.”
“Immediately after the flag-off, Roosco Construction Ltd, led by its Managing Director, Mr. Marcel Alrouss, mobilized workers and heavy machinery to site, and construction began in earnest.”
“Barely a month ago, I personally inspected the project and observed remarkable progress. Over 8,000 metres of lined drains had already been completed, covering nearly 4km of the 10km stretch—an impressive milestone within such a short timeframe.”
“This administration does not permit contractors to hide behind the rainy season as an excuse to abandon projects. Yet, it is a universal fact that force majeure—such as heavy rains—can slow down work on any construction site.”
“So, why do some “noble men” choose to sneer rather than speak the truth?
As Christians, what does the Holy Book teach us? In John 18:37, Pilate asked Jesus, “Are You a king then?” Jesus answered, “You say rightly that I am a king. For this cause I was born, and for this cause I have come into the world, that I should bear witness to the truth.”
“It is therefore both surprising and disheartening to see torrents of criticism over the pace of the Oke-Aro/Idanre project. What is worse, many critics deliberately refuse to acknowledge that the road is actively under construction.”
“The irony is glaring: those who peddle such misleading remarks know full well that Rome was not built in a day, and that not all who built Rome were Romans.”
“The inconveniences currently being experienced by commuters and residents along the corridor are temporary. Development comes with discomfort—but that discomfort eventually produces enduring benefits. Simply put: no pain, no gain.”
“Sadly, in Ondo State today, it has become “profitable” in some circles to criticize Governor Aiyedatiwa—not out of genuine concern, but because it has become the latest political trade.”
“Let me restate this truth: the Governor remains deeply committed to serving the people by delivering life-changing projects and critical infrastructure across the state. He has put his hand on the plough—and he will not look back.”
