By Comrade Allen Sowore, Esq.
The Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC) was established in 2000 under the administration of Chief Adebayo Adefarati as an intervention agency. Its purpose was to administer 40 percent of the state’s 13 percent oil derivation revenue to support critical sectors, particularly health, education, infrastructure, housing, and environmental protection within the mandate areas of Ilaje and Ese-Odo Local Government Areas.
However, over time, the commission’s objectives have often been diverted by political interests. Upon taking office, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa pledged to refocus OSOPADEC on its original mission: accelerating development in these vital areas. To this end, he appointed Princess Abike Bayo-Ilawole as the commission’s secretary. Since her appointment, Princess Abike has propelled the commission forward, ensuring it fulfills its intended role.
On Tuesday, November 12, 2024, the governor inaugurated the newly rehabilitated 32.7km Alape Junction – Araromi Seaside Road in Ilaje LGA. He also launched the distribution of 2,000 sets of twin lockers (desks and chairs), along with essential English and science textbooks and instructional materials to public schools in the mandate areas.
In his address, the governor emphasised the government’s commitment to transforming the oil-producing regions through critical infrastructure projects designed to address longstanding challenges from oil exploration and exploitation.
In less than eleven months, the commission has funded transformative projects in Ilaje and Ese-Odo, bringing significant development to these areas. Notable projects include constructing a 1,000-meter concrete walkway with jetties at Obe Nla, the 28.5km Aboto – Atijere Road, a mini water treatment scheme at Molutehin, and establishing the School of Maritime Transport and Logistics at Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology (OAUSTECH) in Ugbonla.
Looking ahead, plans include constructing the 4.72km Ugbonla – Erunna Road, complete with a bridge across the Erunna River, distributing 2,000 prepaid electricity meters, and building concrete landing jetties in 18 communities across Ilaje and Ese-Odo LGAs. Additionally, the governor announced approval for the immediate renovation of 21 public schools in the areas. Preparation for the 2023/2024 bursary and scholarship awards for students in tertiary institutions has officially commenced, a development warmly welcomed by the students.
In her welcome address, Princess Abike highlighted the transformative impact of these infrastructure projects on the lives of people in Ondo State’s oil-producing areas. The positive response from the community reflects the success of OSOPADEC’s renewed focus. This is indeed how it should be.
The Kalasuwe of Apoiland, Oba Professor (Deacon) Sunday Adejumola Amuseghan Lawe II, who spoke on behalf of the communities, expressed confidence in the governor’s ability to deliver good governance without discrimination. He voiced optimism that the governor would continue to execute projects across the state.
As the people departed to their respective locations, I could see relief and satisfaction on their faces. I walked on the new road and saw a trailer loaded with furniture—sets of twin lockers (desks and chairs). I saw samples of essential English and science textbooks on a table, and I was reminded of the commission’s guiding mantra whenever attempts have been made to reposition it for more robust service delivery: “OSOPADEC as It Should Be”
Indeed, this is how the Commission should operate—one day, one project!
Comrade Allen Sowore, Esq.
SSA to the Governor of Ondo State on Strategic Communication
November 13th, 2024
