The Osun State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has accused Governor Ademola Adeleke of inequitable development, claiming his administration concentrates state projects in his hometown of Ede while ignoring a federal directive to pause the relocation of the Osun State International Airport project.
Governor Adeleke’s office has denied the allegations, asserting infrastructure projects are distributed across the state.
The opposition party, via its Director of Media and Information Kola Olabisi, described the Adeleke administration as “incorrigible and selfish.” The APC alleged Ede is undergoing extensive construction with all four major entrances either dualized or under rapid dualization, while other towns and villages see “no meaningful developmental project.” The party also criticized the state legislature for alleged silence on the issue.
On the airport, the APC cited a December 6, 2024, letter from the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace. The letter, signed by Permanent Secretary Dr. Emmanuel D. Meribole, requested the state suspend the foundation-laying ceremony for the relocation from Ido-Osun to Ede. The directive aimed to resolve petitions over the existing airstrip and harmonize state and federal efforts, stressing the “judicious use of funds to curtail wastage of resources.” The APC challenged the governor to clarify if the suspension was lifted and to address reports of a N10 billion allocation for continued work.
In response, Governor Adeleke’s spokesperson Olawale Rasheed dismissed the claims as incorrect. He stated infrastructure projects are inclusive and evenly distributed, listing ongoing works in Ile Ife, Ilesa, Iwo, Ikirun, Ila, and Osogbo. Rasheed highlighted the Obalufon of Ile Ife’s commendation for a N14 billion flyover and dualisation project there, and noted over 14 roads executed in the town.
Regarding the airport, Rasheed affirmed the administration’s commitment to developing a cargo and commercial airport within legal bounds. He clarified that Ido-Osun remains an airstrip housing an Air Force training centre and a proposed federal airstrip, a status the state government respects. “The present administration is committed to expanding the transport and logistics capacity of Osun State across all transport modes,” he stated, adding development proceeds with due process.
The exchange underscores political tensions over regional development equity and inter-governmental coordination on major infrastructure in Osun State. Residents and constituents in various towns are likely to watch closely as both sides present their cases on the distribution of state resources and adherence to federal guidelines.
