Silence can sometimes be more deafening than words. This is what the candidate of the Workers’ Party, Chief Sola Ebiseni, is raising as he urged Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to take a stand on the proper alignment of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road as it affects Ondo State.
As available maps reveal that the road may not properly traverse the coastal part of the state, Ebiseni expressed concerns about the significant benefits the state could lose if the alignment is not corrected.
Addressing a press conference in Akure, the state capital, the candidate highlighted the importance of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road project initiated by the Tinubu administration, describing it as the most visionary project for the people of the Niger Delta. He noted that the portion of Ondo State, with about 100 kilometres of coastline, would be most likely to benefit, particularly in terms of coastal investments and coastal erosion management.
However, despite efforts by opinion leaders in Ondo State, particularly the people of Ilaje area, to ensure fair representation, the governor has remained indifferent. Ebiseni personally suggested to the governor that a meeting be held to inform the people and allow for representations to the federal government, but there is palpable tension.
While the governor seems content with minor inaugurations, Ebiseni reiterates the critical importance of the project to the state, highlighting the potential positive impact on the local economy and the quality of life of the people.
Their exchange raises a fundamental question: the importance for a governor to have the understanding and influence necessary to realize essential projects such as this one, with a lasting impact on the community.
In a word, the article underlines the importance of communication between the authorities and the population to guarantee the development and well-being of all.