Chief Julius Arokoyo, the Obamudi of Oweland, has appealed to Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, to urgently facilitate the commencement of the reconstruction of Ikowa-Opa Road in Kabba, describing the project as an opportunity for the present administration to deliver another landmark development achievement to the community.
Arokoyo made the appeal in an open letter addressed to Governor Ododo, stressing that the reconstruction of the road would address a longstanding infrastructural challenge and further strengthen the relationship between the state government and the people of Kabba.
He recalled that the reconstruction of Ikowa-Opa Road was publicly flagged off during the administration of former Governor Yahaya Bello, but regretted that several years after the ceremony, actual construction work had yet to commence.
He therefore urged Governor Ododo to personally intervene by facilitating the mobilisation of the contractor to the site, ensuring that construction begins without further delay.
The Obamudi of Oweland drew a comparison between the Ikowa-Opa Road project and the establishment of the university in Kabba, noting that the latter had become a significant development achievement that resonated with the people during the last electoral cycle.
He recalled the popular expression, “Vote for University,” which, according to him, reflected the people’s appreciation of the fulfilment of the promise to establish a university in their community.
Arokoyo maintained that the university experience had demonstrated that government policies and promises translated into visible development projects could generate public confidence, goodwill and appreciation.
Arokoyo noted that the political goodwill accompanying good governance was more sustainable when anchored on tangible projects that citizens could see, use and experience in their daily lives.
He consequently called for the immediate mobilisation of the contractor, commencement of construction and effective supervision to guarantee quality delivery within a reasonable timeframe.
Describing his intervention as an appeal for development, partnership and renewed public confidence, Arokoyo urged the governor to seize the opportunity to convert the longstanding expectation of Kabba residents into a lasting achievement.
He concluded by expressing optimism that Governor Ododo would give the appeal favourable consideration, stressing that the people of Kabba deserved another significant infrastructure project they could proudly associate with his administration.
“The university was a promise fulfilled. Let Ikowa-Opa Road be another promise delivered,” he declared.
