Former Governor of Ekiti State, Segun Oni, has called on the incumbent governor, Biodun Oyebanji, to prioritise the construction of deteriorating federal roads within the state, despite their being under federal jurisdiction.
Speaking during Oyebanji’s courtesy visit to his residence in Ifaki-Ekiti yesterday, Oni emphasised that although federal roads are managed by the federal government, it is the people of Ekiti who suffer daily due to their poor conditions.
The former governor commended Oyebanji for his administration’s strides in developing road and power infrastructure, which he credited for driving the state’s socio-economic growth.
He described the visible transformation of state roads as proof of Oyebanji’s dedication to improving the lives of Ekiti residents.
“Functional road networks are vital for economic development,” Oni stated, lauding the administration’s proactive approach to infrastructure development.
He urged the governor to maintain his focus on critical infrastructure projects that directly impact the well-being of the people.
Highlighting the importance of federal roads to the state’s overall development, Oni noted that their deplorable state significantly hampers commuters and businesses.
READ ALSO: Gov Oyebanji mourns Ekiti Chief Judge
He urged the state government to intervene, despite jurisdictional challenges, to alleviate the hardship caused by the poor conditions.
Oni expressed satisfaction with the progress in key sectors of the state, remarking that Oyebanji’s administration was addressing the very issues he would have prioritized as governor.
In response, Governor Oyebanji described the visit as an opportunity to learn from past leaders, emphasising that their insights are invaluable for shaping policies and delivering better governance.
He praised Oni as a statesman whose experience in governance offers valuable guidance for his administration.
“Leveraging his wealth of experience will help us align our policies with the aspirations of the people,” Oyebanji noted.
The governor reaffirmed his commitment to fostering development across all sectors and assured that his administration would continue to prioritize projects that directly benefit the people.
“Well, you cannot underrate the place of experience in this job and Engr. Segun Oni is one leader who did so well serving people while he was in office. Today’s visit is just a regular visit to tap from his wealth of experience and to greet him for Christmas and the new year”, the governor said.
