The administration of Governor Ademola Adeleke has announced the relocation of the Osun State airport project from Ido-Osun to Akoda, Ede, citing technical reasons. The decision has triggered protests from residents of Ido-Osun, accusing the government of favoritism toward the governor’s hometown.
Technical Reasons for Relocation
Lai Oriowo, a member of the airport project’s technical committee, explained that the Ido-Osun site did not meet the requirements for a modern airport. Key technical challenges included:
- Runway Length: The current 1.67 km runway falls short of the 4.8 km standard. To accommodate a class 4E aircraft, a total length of 5.1 km is needed, including safety areas.
- Infrastructure Limitations: The existing culverts and drainage systems are inadequate, requiring significant modifications. The terminal and control tower are also poorly positioned relative to the runway.
- Relocation Challenges: Expanding the runway would necessitate displacing nearby settlements and relocating Adeleke Secondary School.
Oriowo emphasized that the decision was based on these viability issues rather than political considerations. He added that the Ido-Osun site, now under the control of the Air Force, will serve as a training school and alternate airport under a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the state government.
Political Backlash and Allegations of Nepotism
Despite the technical justification, critics, including Adewale Adebayo, Chairman of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), have condemned the move as politically motivated. Adebayo described it as “pure nepotism and anti-democratic” and accused Governor Adeleke of focusing development efforts primarily on Ede.
Adebayo argued that relocating the project undermines years of planning and investment intended to boost Osun’s economy through improved transportation infrastructure. He warned that concentrating resources in one area could alienate other communities and stifle statewide growth.
Community Protests and Broader Implications
Residents of Ido-Osun staged protests, expressing frustration over the loss of the airport project. Many fear the relocation will diminish economic opportunities and hinder development in the area.
For Ede, however, the project’s arrival could enhance local development and create jobs. The airport is expected to attract investment and improve connectivity within the state and beyond.
Balancing Development and Unity
While the state government insists on technical reasons for the relocation, the controversy highlights broader concerns about equitable distribution of resources. Observers emphasize the need for transparent communication and inclusive governance to foster unity and ensure that all parts of Osun State benefit from public projects.
As the debate continues, many will watch closely to see how the Adeleke administration addresses the concerns of Ido-Osun residents and reassures stakeholders across the state.
