The Ondo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has criticized the state government’s plan to spend N3.69 billion on the Chief Reuben Fasoranti Park project, describing it as ill-timed and insensitive given the current economic hardship. According to the party, the project demonstrates misplaced priorities, as several critical sectors in the state remain neglected.
The state government had approved the funds for the upgrade and expansion of the park, located opposite the Governor’s Office Complex in Alagbaka, in April 2025. The PDP chairman in the state, Mr. Modupe Aisida, argued that the project would consume about one percent of the state’s 2026 capital expenditure, which could be better utilized to address more pressing needs.
Aisida expressed concern that the project’s location, directly in front of the Governor’s Office, is inappropriate for an area meant for official government activities. He suggested that parks should be situated in areas designated for relaxation, rather than in the vicinity of government offices. The chairman also questioned the government’s decision to allocate such a significant amount of funds to the project when schools and health centers in the state are in a state of disrepair.
The PDP chairman further accused the administration of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of failing to prioritize essential sectors such as housing, education, and healthcare. He noted that the state faces a significant housing deficit, yet the government has focused on providing housing for political office holders rather than addressing the needs of ordinary citizens. Aisida also criticized the prolonged delay in completing the Shagari Estate flyover, which has remained unfinished for over two years.
The controversy surrounding the park project highlights the ongoing debate about the state government’s spending priorities and its response to the needs of its citizens. As the state navigates its economic challenges, the allocation of resources to projects such as the Chief Reuben Fasoranti Park is likely to face continued scrutiny. The PDP’s criticism of the project serves as a reminder of the need for transparency and accountability in government spending, particularly in times of economic hardship.
