The Senior Special Assistant to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa on Community Engagement (Central), Aarẹ Oluwafemi Fadairo, has visited Oja-Ona Community, located behind Automart along the Ilesha/Owo Expressway, Akure, to engage residents on pressing community concerns.
During the visit on Tuesday, residents of the community, led by their Chairman, Alhaji Tajudeen Kayode, expressed deep appreciation to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for his timely intervention that halted the demolition of houses in the area.
Addressing Hon. Fadairo on behalf of the community, Alhaji Kayode recalled the painful experience of May 14, 2020, when parts of the community were demolished, describing the Governor’s intervention at the time as unforgettable.
“May 14, 2020, will forever remain a memorable day for us in this community. That was the day we were crying like babies because of devastation. It was our Governor, then the Deputy Governor, who came to our rescue. That singular act plugged him permanently into our hearts,” he said.
He described Governor Aiyedatiwa as a compassionate leader who stood by the people in their darkest moment, stressing that the community has remained steadfast in its support for the Governor since then.
“Why won’t he become Governor? He rescued us from devastation. He demonstrated true leadership, and as law-abiding Nigerians, we respect constituted authority. What His Excellency did for us that day will remain in our memory forever,” Kayode added.
The community leader further assured the government of the community’s continued loyalty and support.
“This community has cast over 2,500 votes, when we came out en masse during the election. We will continue to support His Excellency because his achievements are visible across the state. Our prayers are with him to go higher and higher,” he stated.
However, Alhaji Kayode drew attention to several challenges confronting the community, particularly the security risks following the demolitions, poor road infrastructure worsened by erosion, and lack of basic amenities.
“Our community is developing gradually, but our strength as a communal effort is limited. We need government support. We need electricity, solar lighting, road networks—about four roads leading into the community—and a security post to curb insecurity,” he appealed.
Responding, Hon. Fadairo reassured residents of the state government’s commitment to addressing their concerns, noting that the visit was part of ongoing efforts to ensure inclusive governance and community-driven development.
He assured the community that their requests would be relayed appropriately and that the government would work towards providing lasting solutions to the challenges facing Oja-Ona Community.
