During a radio interview in Ibadan, governorship aspirant Engineer Oyedele Hakeem Alao expressed strong concerns over governance priorities in Oyo State, describing the reported ₦60 billion renovation of the Government House as excessive.
Speaking from his professional background as an engineer experienced in contract execution, he emphasized the need for prudence and proper project evaluation in government spending.
On the issue of the Circular Road project, Engineer Alao traced its development across administrations. He noted that during the era of Rasheed Ladoja, the road design covered about 75 meters, while under Abiola Ajimobi, it was expanded to 150 meters on both sides, totaling 300 meters. However, he criticized the current administration for extending the scope to about 1 kilometer (500 meters on each side), describing it as unnecessarily excessive. He stated that if elected governor, he would revert to the earlier 150-meter design to ensure cost efficiency.
Engineer Alao also raised concerns about basic infrastructure, questioning the availability of pipe-borne water in Ibadan and stressing the need for improved public utilities. Drawing from his experience in Asian countries, he advocated for stronger collaboration between the government and the private sector to drive development.
On the Bodija explosion incident, he alleged that while the Federal Government reportedly provided ₦50 billion in support, only ₦5 billion was publicly accounted for by the state government, raising concerns about transparency and accountability.
Addressing security, he criticized the purchase of an aircraft valued at ₦7.7 billion, suggesting that modern surveillance technology such as drones would have been a more effective and economical alternative, as seen in advanced countries.
While acknowledging that some federal policies under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu may be challenging, he maintained that such policies are necessary for long-term growth. However, he held the state government responsible for not adequately cushioning the impact on citizens despite increased federal allocations.
In conclusion, Engineer Alao assured that if given the opportunity to serve as governor, he would prioritize the welfare of the people, including initiatives aimed at improving food supply and reducing hardship among the masses.Tagged Allow Alao, Hakeem Alao, Oyo State, Seyi Makinde