The recent directive from Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has caused a heated debate between the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Governor Adeleke has banned heavy-duty trucks from using the Olaiya Flyover due to safety concerns raised by technical reports and motorists.
This decision was announced by the governor’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, who stated that the ban is meant to protect drivers. The state’s Ministry of Works and Infrastructure has been given the responsibility to enforce this directive.
The APC has criticized this move, calling it unnecessary and demanding proof of the bridge’s safety issues. They claim that the Olaiya Flyover was built using high-quality materials and is one of the best legacies of previous governments. Oluremi Omowaiye, the former Commissioner for Works, defended the bridge’s construction, explaining that it was thoroughly evaluated to ensure safety and improve traffic flow.
Omowaiye highlighted that before the flyover was built, there was an environmental impact assessment and a traffic count to address the area’s congestion and accident rates. He insisted that the construction aimed to enhance the safety and convenience of drivers.
On the other hand, the PDP supports the governor’s actions, stating that they prioritize the safety of the public over political interests. Oladele Bamiji, the party’s Director of Media, emphasized that the directive responds to genuine concerns from motorists about the bridge’s condition. He argued that it is crucial to act on safety issues to prevent potential accidents.
Bamiji stressed that protecting the lives of residents in Osun is far more important than any political legacy. He warned that if the governor failed to address safety concerns and an incident occurred, the same critics would be the first to blame the government.
In summary, the disagreement over the Olaiya Flyover highlights a larger debate about safety and governance in Osun State, with both parties emphasizing their positions on what they believe is best for the public.
