The attention of the Opomulero Group has been drawn to the lengthy article authored by Barrister Oloroogun Sola Ajisafe against the proposed Akure Metropolitan Flyover. While every citizen has the constitutional right to express an opinion, such opinions should be anchored on facts, objectivity, and a genuine commitment to the development of Ondo State rather than political grandstanding.

Barrister Ajisafe’s latest intervention is another attempt to politicize a strategic infrastructure project that is designed to improve traffic management, stimulate economic activities, and prepare Akure for the demands of a rapidly expanding state capital. Development cannot be suspended simply because a few individuals choose to see politics in every government initiative.

It is unfortunate that Barrister Ajisafe seeks to rely on unverified accounts allegedly attributed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to justify his opposition. Public policy should never be built on hearsay or political speculation. The President has consistently demonstrated that critical infrastructure remains central to economic growth, as evident in the massive road, rail, and coastal highway projects being executed across Nigeria. It is therefore misleading to suggest that constructing a flyover in Akure contradicts the development philosophy of the Federal Government.

Akure is no longer the small provincial town it was decades ago. It has grown into a major administrative, commercial, and educational hub. The increasing traffic volume around Adegbola, Oja-Oba, Alagbaka, FUTA axis, and adjoining corridors requires long-term engineering solutions rather than temporary traffic control measures. Cities that aspire to become investment destinations must invest in infrastructure that anticipates future growth.

It is also disappointing that Barrister Ajisafe attempts to reduce Akure’s traffic challenges to roadside trading and indiscipline. While traffic enforcement remains important, no serious urban planner would suggest that law enforcement alone can replace strategic road infrastructure. Modern cities across Nigeria and the world combine disciplined traffic management with continuous investment in roads, bridges, and interchanges.

We advise critics to allow professional engineers, transport planners, and government agencies to execute their constitutional responsibilities instead of creating unnecessary panic through sensational commentaries. Opposition is healthy in a democracy, but opposition must not become an obstacle to development.

Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa has repeatedly demonstrated his commitment to delivering projects that will benefit present and future generations. The Akure Metropolitan Flyover should be assessed on its technical merits, economic value, and long-term impact—not through politically charged narratives designed to score cheap public sympathy.

Barrister Ajisafe should also understand that leadership requires vision. Every transformational project faces criticism at conception, yet history consistently vindicates leaders who choose development over propaganda. The people of Ondo State deserve constructive engagement, not endless pessimism masquerading as patriotism.

The Opomulero Group therefore urges all well-meaning citizens to support initiatives that will modernize Akure and position Ondo State for greater economic competitiveness. Progress demands courage, not fear; solutions, not sensationalism.

Signed:

Hon. Olasupo Olakunori Michael
Director General, Opomulero Group