IBARAPA CENTRAL DESERVES FACTS, FAIRNESS AND UNITY — NOT DIVISIVE NARRATIVES….. Concerned Igboora Citizens

“Development should be judged by need, impact, and inclusiveness—not by sentiments or sectional interests.”

The attention of the Concerned Citizens of Igbo-Ora has been drawn to recent publications, particularly the report by Asako Reporters in which Prince Tayo Akinyemi cited the views of Dr. Rashidi Lamidi and Engr. Taiwo Aderogba regarding the distribution of developmental projects across Ibarapa Central Local Government.

As responsible stakeholders committed to truth, peace, and sustainable development, we consider it necessary to place the facts before the public in order to foster informed discourse and preserve the unity that has always distinguished our local government.

Hon. Olusola Adeleke’s Performance Speaks for Itself

Since assuming office in 2023, the Executive Chairman of Ibarapa Central Local Government, Hon. Olusola Ayodele Adeleke, has demonstrated purposeful and people-oriented leadership. His administration has delivered visible achievements in infrastructure, education, youth empowerment, employment, security, healthcare support, and other critical sectors.

While no administration is beyond constructive criticism, such criticism must be based on facts, equity, and a genuine desire to advance the collective interest of all communities within Ibarapa Central.

«”Criticism strengthens democracy only when it is guided by facts rather than sentiments.”»

Understanding the Structure of Ibarapa Central

For clarity, Ibarapa Central Local Government comprises three major blocs:

– Block 1: Idofin, Sagan-Un, Iberekodo, Pako and Igbole.

– Block 2: Igbo-Ora (Isale-Oba, Oke-Iserin and Oke-Odo).

– Block 3: Idere.

Historically and administratively, Blocks 1 and 2 together constitute Igbo-Ora, a community whose people have lived together peacefully for generations. Attempts to portray developmental projects within these two blocs as benefiting entirely separate communities do not reflect our shared history and long-standing unity.

The ICT Centre: A Decision Based on Need, Not Politics

One of the issues raised concerns the location of the newly established ICT Centre.

A fair assessment reveals that Block 1 already enjoys the presence of several institutions with ICT facilities, including:

– Oyo State College of Agriculture and Technology, Igbo-Ora, with a standard JAMB-accredited CBT Centre.

– Igbo-Ora High School ICT Facility.

– Methodist Grammar School ICT Facility.

In contrast, Lajorun High School, located in Block 2, has suffered significant infrastructural challenges since its relocation from its former site, now occupied by Police Secondary School, Igbo-Ora.

The decision to establish the ICT Centre at Lajorun High School is therefore a deliberate effort to bridge an existing infrastructural gap and provide students in that axis with access to modern digital learning facilities.

«”Equity does not always mean giving everyone the same thing; it means providing what is needed where it is needed most.”»

We commend Hon. Olusola Ayodele Adeleke for making a decision that prioritises educational development over political considerations.

Twins Radio Belongs to Every Resident of Ibarapa Central

Regarding the location of Twins Radio, available information indicates that the site was chosen based on the availability of suitable land for immediate development.

Rather than reducing such a strategic project to a sectional issue, it should be recognised as a communication asset that will serve every resident of Ibarapa Central by promoting information dissemination, public enlightenment, cultural heritage, commerce, and community development.

Let the Facts Be Told About Oja-Oba Market

It is equally important to clarify that the ongoing rehabilitation of Oja-Oba Market is not a Local Government project and not directly an Oyo State Government project. It is a World Bank-supported intervention.

Attributing the project to the Executive Chairman as evidence of uneven project distribution is therefore inaccurate and capable of misleading the public.

Public conversations must distinguish between projects executed by different tiers of government and those financed by development partners.

Development Is Not a Competition Between Communities

No responsible government distributes projects merely to satisfy political calculations. Good governance requires identifying developmental gaps, responding to pressing needs, and ensuring that no community is permanently left behind.

The administration of Hon. Olusola Ayodele Adeleke has consistently demonstrated this principle through projects spread across various communities in Ibarapa Central.

«”The true measure of leadership is not where projects are located today, but whether every community is progressing together.”»

Our Appeal to All Stakeholders

We respectfully appeal to political leaders, traditional institutions, youth groups, community associations, and residents of Ibarapa Central to remain committed to peace, unity, and constructive engagement.

Where there are genuine developmental needs, they should be presented through dialogue, evidence, and mutual respect rather than narratives capable of creating unnecessary divisions among brothers and sisters who have coexisted harmoniously for generations.

As citizens, we owe ourselves the responsibility of encouraging issue-based discussions that strengthen, rather than weaken, our collective aspiration for progress.

Conclusion

To whom much is given, much is expected.

Hon. Olusola Ayodele Adeleke remains accountable to the people, and like every public servant, his administration should continue to welcome constructive criticism. However, fairness demands that such criticism be anchored on verifiable facts and objective analysis.

We acknowledge the remarkable progress recorded under his leadership and encourage him to remain steadfast in his commitment to inclusive governance, equitable development, and the continued transformation of Ibarapa Central Local Government.

Together, let us choose unity over division, facts over speculation, and progress over politics.