Aiyedatiwa defends Tinubu's comments on flyovers

Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has explained President Bola Tinubu’s recent remarks about flyovers built by state governors. He said the President did not criticize governors for building this kind of infrastructure.

Earlier, Tinubu advised state governors to avoid constructing flyovers in areas with low traffic. He suggested they should use their increased federal funds to improve road networks. This, he said, would help living conditions and allow security agencies better access to remote areas.

The President pointed out that states are now getting four to five times what they used to receive from the Federation Account.

Aiyedatiwa spoke during the launch of a 2.38-kilometre flyover project at Oba Adesida Road in Akure on Monday. He said this project is important for reducing traffic jams in the city center.

He added that the President’s remarks about flyover construction do not apply to this new project. “Let me quickly remind all of us, especially those naysayers that never see anything good in what we are doing. This is not the kind of location Mr President was referring to when he said governors should stop building flyovers. This is not the kind.

“He said they should not erect them where they are unnecessary. So you must add the other side of his speech. Do not quote Mr President out of context. He said where it is necessary, you can do it. This one is more than necessary, and that is why we are doing it.

“Therefore, I want to thank Mr President for the reforms that he has embarked upon that have allowed all the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory to access more money from the Federation Account.”

Aiyedatiwa explained that this project is part of his administration’s plan for urban renewal and infrastructure development. “The Oyemekun off Oba Adesida axis is one of the busiest roads in the state capital, Akure. The Commissioner for Infrastructure, Lands and Housing presented that careful study was made before we embarked on this project. It has long served as the fulcrum of commercial, administrative and social activity in the capital city.

“It connects our foremost markets, financial institutions and educational establishments, places of worship and dense residential areas. It is the corridor through which the economic life of Akure passes daily. Yet, with growth has come considerable strain because of high traffic on the road. Increasing population, rising vehicular movement and expanding commercial activities have created persistent congestion and heightened the risk of road accidents.

“These challenges hamper productivity, discourage investment and compromise the safety and well-being of our citizens. A responsible government must therefore act decisively to remedy the situation, and that is exactly what we are doing right now.”

The governor urged the contractor in charge of the project to follow the design, budget and schedule closely. He insisted that they must maintain high standards of professionalism, quality, safety and integrity.

“Adhere strictly to the approved design specifications and timelines, and ensure that the project is delivered to the enduring benefit of our people,” the governor instructed.