Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, announced on Monday that his administration has initiated reforms to the state’s Amotekun Corps to serve as a bridge between local communities and federal security services.
Governor Adeleke made this statement while addressing a delegation from the Ife Development Board at the Government House in Osogbo. He also highlighted the low level of development in the ancient city of Ife, deeming it unacceptable, and revealed plans for significant upgrades, starting with the Lagere flyover and the dualisation of the road leading to the Ooni’s palace.
A statement from the governor’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, noted that Adeleke was determined to change the face of Ile Ife, emphasizing that the city is too important to remain underdeveloped, especially as a global tourist destination. “Ile Ife cannot continue to look like a village when global visitors come calling,” Adeleke remarked.
Flanked by his deputy, Mr. Kola Adewusi, the governor reiterated that Ile Ife is not only the cultural capital and origin of the Yoruba people but also serves as a global hub for Yoruba tourism and religion, attracting visitors from North and South America, as well as other parts of the world.
Adeleke commended the Ooni of Ife and community leaders for their support of the ongoing projects, including the Lagere flyover and road dualisation. He emphasized that the economic importance of the flyover has been well established, as the junction serves as a crucial business intersection linking Osun West, Ilesa, and Ondo State through Garage Olode.
Addressing security concerns, Adeleke revealed that his administration is reforming the state’s Amotekun Corps to work more closely with local vigilantes, forest hunters, and federal security agencies to ensure the safety of both urban and rural areas in Osun.
Additionally, the governor announced plans for an agricultural processing zone, supported by the African Development Bank (AfDB), to be located in Ile Ife, aimed at boosting the region’s agricultural sector.
The president of the Ife Development Board, Mr. Gbenga Adefaye, commended Governor Adeleke’s development initiatives in Osun State, particularly in Ile Ife, and presented requests regarding road expansion, security, and agriculture.
