The Ondo State Government has taken swift and decisive action in response to a devastating landslide that occurred near a major bridge along the Iwaro–Oke-Oka road in Akoko South-West Local Government Area.
On Saturday, July 12, 2025, the Special Assistant to the Governor on Emergency Response, Hon. (Prince) Wellington Oriade Adebawo, led a high-powered delegation to assess the scene and reassure affected communities of the government’s commitment to their safety.
The delegation included top government officials such as the Director of Ecology in the Ministry of Environment, Mr. Rotimi Ogunleye, his deputy, and the Chairman of Akoko South-West Local Government Area, Hon. Ayo Ajana.
Upon arrival in Oke-Oka Akoko, the team paid a courtesy visit to the Olubaka of Oka, His Royal Majesty Oba (Dr.) Adebori Adeleye.
The monarch warmly welcomed the delegation alongside respected stakeholders including elder statesman Bashorun Sehinde Arogbofa, Ambassador Rowland Omowo, Comrade Ajayi Danjuma, and Comrade Bode Adeniyi.
Speaking at the palace, Hon. Adebawo conveyed the sympathy and solidarity of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa to the people of the affected community.
He emphasized the governor’s personal directive to conduct a thorough assessment and deliver a comprehensive report on the incident.
Adebawo also commended the prompt alert provided by Chief Olugbenga Atiba, the Governor’s Senior Special Assistant on Security, which enabled quick governmental response.
In his remarks, Oba Adeleye expressed deep appreciation to the state government for its timely intervention, noting that the visit was a clear indication of the administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property.
Bashorun Arogbofa echoed the monarch’s sentiments, calling for a long-term solution to address the menace of landslides and erosion in the area.
He stressed the importance of a holistic approach to environmental challenges in the region.
Also speaking, Hon. Ajana, the Council Chairman, commended Governor Aiyedatiwa for his proactive governance. He said the swift deployment of officials had restored hope to the affected residents, many of whom were still reeling from the incident.
Following the palace engagement, the team proceeded to inspect the landslide site and other erosion-impacted areas in Supare, Ajegunle, and Oba Akoko, all within the same local government area.
According to Hon. Adebawo, the assessments are part of broader plans to formulate effective response strategies and ensure such disasters are prevented or mitigated in the future.
