Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has insisted that the contested Eba Island, a territory rich in oil deposits, remains an integral part of Ondo State, contradicting earlier ownership claims by the Ogun State Government.
Aiyedatiwa disclosed this during an infrastructure development tour of the State’s riverine communities, during which he commissioned and flagged off road projects aimed at opening up the coastal area.
While addressing the lingering boundary dispute, the governor, who spoke in Igbokoda, headquarters of Ilaje, stressed that Eba Island lies within the Atijere axis of Ondo State, and has not been ceded to any neighbouring territory.
Aiyedatiwa’s stance comes in response to recent statements from the Ogun State Government, which quoted Governor Dapo Abiodun as saying that President Bola Tinubu had approved the commencement of commercial oil drilling operations within the axis, following the alleged claim that the axis Island falls within Ogun Waterside Local Government Area.
Aiyedatia, who assured residents of the State that the island will not fall to Ogun State, commissioned a six-kilometre NDDC Road in Igbokoda and flagged off an 8.5-kilometre dual carriageway from College Road through Okoga Junction to Irewole Roundabout in the Ilaje Local Government Area.
Describing the NDDC Road commissioning as a historic milestone, the governor said: “The project we witness today transcends the mere pouring of asphalt or laying of stones; it is about easing the burdens of daily life for every man, woman and child across the Ilaje axis.
“By commissioning this vital road, we are unlocking new vistas of opportunity for our coastal communities and reinforcing our resolve to connect our people to progress.”
While harping on the importance of the road in enhancing mobility and connectivity within Igbokoda and neighbouring communities, he noted that it will act as a catalyst for socio-economic advancement and regional integration.
“Our primary objective has always been your comfort and safety. We envisioned a road that would endure the test of time, minimise recurrent maintenance, and guarantee secure and swift journeys for all who use it.”
On his part, the Commissioner for Infrastructure, Lands and Housing, Ayorinde Olawoye, stated that the NDDC Road spans 6 kilometres and has an average width of 10.3 metres.
He listed other completed roads during the administration’s first year, including Nigeria Delta Road, Igbokoda; Igbotako Road; FCMB Road, Igbokoda; Omotehinse Road, Igbokoda; Onaopemipo, Okitipupa; Ali Balogun Road, Okitipupa; Ade-Adeyemi Road, Okitipupa; Oke-Raye Road, Okitipupa; Ola-Oluwa Road; Ewi Road, Okitipupa; Luwa Road, Irele; Mobayode Road, Irele; Mobil Road, Ore; Bumes Road, Pre; VIO Road; and Mobas Garage.