The Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja (Aruna I), has urged the Federal Ministry of Works to ensure that only quality materials are used in road construction projects to guarantee durable infrastructure across Ibadan, Oyo State and the country.
The monarch made the call on Monday while receiving a delegation of the Federal Ministry of Works, led by Mr. Aina Kolawole, on a courtesy visit to the Olubadan Palace at Oke-Aremo, Ibadan.
Oba Ladoja also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the ongoing infrastructural development in Ibadan and Oyo State, noting that the Federal Government’s investment in road construction and rehabilitation was evident across the state.
According to the monarch, while the ongoing projects are commendable, the quality of construction must remain a priority to ensure the roads stand the test of time.
He attributed the poor condition of some existing roads to the activities of overloaded trucks and other heavy-duty vehicles, as well as inadequate drainage systems along major highways.
The Olubadan assured the ministry’s delegation of the support of the traditional institution in promoting public awareness on environmental sanitation, particularly discouraging residents from dumping refuse in drainage channels and waterways.
Earlier, the leader of the delegation, Mr. Aina Kolawole, thanked the Olubadan and members of the Olubadan-in-Council for the warm reception accorded the team.
He appealed for the continued support of the monarch and other traditional rulers in providing a peaceful and enabling environment for contractors handling ongoing federal road projects in the state.
Kolawole also urged the traditional ruler to help sensitize residents against encroaching on road setbacks and dumping refuse in waterways, noting that such practices hinder road construction and drainage infrastructure.
Among those present during the visit were the Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba (Barr.) Tajudeen Abimbola Ajibola; the Otun Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba (Dr.) Kolawole Adegbola; the Osi Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Abiodun Kola-Daisi; the Ashipa Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Salawudeen Amidu Ajibade; the Ashipa Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Dauda Abiodun Azees; and the Ekerin Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Akeem Mobolaji Adewoyin.
