Dear Esteemed Senator Dr. Jimoh Ibrahim,
Warmest congratulations on your recent election as a life member of the Senate of Cambridge University. This esteemed recognition reflects your commitment to academic excellence and your esteemed position as a valued global citizen. Your accomplishments are truly outstanding, especially as you are the first to achieve a Doctorate in Business from the University of Cambridge since its founding.
I would like to commend your performance in the Senate, which has earned significant acclaim both domestically and internationally. You have effectively represented and advanced the Federal Republic of Nigeria with great determination, showcasing Nigeria’s legacy as the giant of Africa, as it was revered during the early ’70s to mid-’80s. Furthermore, you have exemplified the ideals of a Senator from the Sunshine State, Ondo, by representing disciplined, industrious, and principled individuals, exhibiting exceptional skill in tackling complex issues and advocating for initiatives that yield mutual benefits. Through your actions, you have demonstrated unique leadership qualities. Well done, esteemed Senator.
However, Senator, I feel compelled to address some urgent matters at home, as it is imperative that you focus on the welfare of the people you represent—the citizens of Ondo State South Senatorial District, which includes Okitipupa (the Ikale Nation, your homeland), Ilaje, and Ese Odo Local Government Areas, all part of the old Okitipupa Division. It is crucial, Senator, to ensure that the benefits of democracy reach your constituents in diverse ways.
Dr. Jimoh Ibrahim, one urgent matter that requires your prompt attention is the exclusion of your constituency from the Akure-Ondo-Ore road development and dualisation project. This project is long overdue. With great sadness, I recall how the perilous nature of this road has tragically cut short the life of a promising and vibrant government official from Ondo State, your late Deputy Governor, H.E. Barr Afolabi Iyantan (my relative). May his soul find eternal rest.
Also, I would like to provide a brief summary of the initiatives taken by individuals from your constituency towards launching the development of this project. In 2007, I wrote to the late Governor, H.E. Dr. Olusegun Agagu, recommending that he approach President Olusegun Obasanjo to seek the dualisation of the Akure-Ondo-Ore-Okitipupa road. Regrettably, this effort did not succeed.
Again, in 2019, I had the privilege of meeting Chief Dr. Awoseyi, a renowned son of Omi Kingdom and Deputy Director at the Federal Ministry of Works, who oversees Procurement, Tender Evaluation, and Contract Awards. We discussed the essential matter of dualising the Akure-Ondo-Ore-Okitipupa-Igbokoda road. Following our conversation, Dr. Awoseyi promptly acted by contacting his associate, Dr. Olubakinde, a Federal Director in the Ministry of Works in Akure, Ondo State. This collaboration resulted in the preliminary design and drawing work for the dualisation project, commencing from Akure to Ondo-Ore-Okitipupa.
Based on credible information, Dr. Awoseyi and other connected staff in the Ministry played a significant role in influencing and securing the commitment of the Hon. Minister of Works, H.E. Raji Fashola, towards the project. Three royal fathers participated in this effort. A jointly signed letter was drafted by the Deji of Akure, the Osemawe of Ondo, and the Abodi of Ikale, which was delivered by HRM Oba Olumoyegun Oniju of Ijuodo to the Hon. Minister, requesting his support for the road project.
The cumulative efforts of those involved in the Ministry, following the retirement of Dr. Awoseyi, brought the project to the attention of Hon. Parliamentarians, prompting them to introduce bills in both the Green and Red chambers of the National Assembly. This led to the allocation of funds, budgeting, and the awarding of a contract for the development of roads.
At this point, I want to express my sincere appreciation for the contributions of Hon. House Representatives Adefiranye, Makinde, and Distinguished Senator Adegbonmire, all of whom represent the Ondo Central Senatorial District. I also acknowledge all other individuals or groups that played a role in the progress of this road project.
Senator, the inexplicable omission of your constituency from the Akure-Ondo-Ore-(Okitipupa-Igbokoda) project could have serious repercussions, including a halt in economic advancement and a lower standard of living for our citizens. More critically, it is a letdown for all residents, regardless of their standing, in the community you serve. It is vital to understand that how your constituents view your performance will greatly affect their support for your future political efforts. Ignoring this issue could foster deep resentment and potentially jeopardize your political career.
I encourage you, Senator, to take initiative and advocate for your constituency’s inclusion in the current project, either by introducing a new bill or seeking presidential intervention for the dualisation of the road. By doing this, you will demonstrate your strong commitment to the welfare and progress of the majority you represent.
Senator Dr. Jimoh Ibrahim, I believe that no barrier can hinder you from fulfilling this request to extend the Akure-Ondo-Ore road development to Igbokoda, especially given your renewed energy in promoting President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda globally. If the Southern Senatorial District is deprived of this essential economic link, neither you, nor MHRs Prince Odimayo and Ojogo, nor our Governor, H.E. Lucky Orimisan Ayedatiwa, will be absolved of blame.
I respectfully call on you to take decisive action to resolve this critical infrastructural development and dualisation issue as your primary focus now. Addressing this will reinforce your commitment to our people’s well-being and establish you as a true advocate for our interests.
Once again, dear Senator, I congratulate you on your accomplishments. Your remarks to the graduates of Cambridge University and the youth are not only inspiring but also forward-thinking and genuine.
I sincerely look forward to observing a more invigorated and sustained dedication to the citizens of the Ondo South Senatorial District.
I wish you the best, Sir.
Yours faithfully,Omowole OmogoroyePresident, Union of Ikale Indigenes (UOII)
