Aiyedatiwa dismisses Ondo’s claim of Eba Island, asserts state’s ownership
By Julius Alabi, Akure
Ondo State Governor, Dr Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, on Sunday declared that Eba Island in the Atijere community remains an integral part of the state, dismissing claims arising from boundary disputes with neighbouring Ogun State.
Speaking on the oil well located on the island, the governor maintained that the territory falls squarely within Ondo’s jurisdiction and has not been ceded under any arrangement.
“The Eba land lies firmly within the Atijere axis,” he said, insisting that the state would continue to defend its territorial integrity.
The clarification came as Aiyedatiwa intensified infrastructure development in the riverine Ilaje Local government area, commissioning a six-kilometre NDDC Road in Igbokoda and flagging off an 8.5-kilometre dual carriageway from College Road through Okoga Junction to Irewole Roundabout.
Describing the road commissioning as a milestone, the governor said the project would ease transportation challenges and open up economic opportunities across the coastal communities.
He noted that the road would enhance connectivity within Igbokoda and adjoining areas, serving as a catalyst for socio-economic growth and regional integration.
Aiyedatiwa added that the project was executed with durability in mind, taking into consideration the peculiar terrain and flooding patterns of the riverine environment.
At the flag-off ceremony of the dual carriageway, the governor said the project would improve traffic flow, reduce travel time and boost commercial activities in the area.
According to him, the initiative aligns with his administration’s broader agenda of expanding infrastructure, improving accessibility and promoting inclusive economic growth across the state.
He assured residents that other ongoing projects in the Southern Senatorial District, including the Ajagba–Iju Osun–Akotogbo Road, Omotosho–Igbotako–Iju Odo Road, and the Okitipupa–Igbokoda dual carriageway, would be completed on schedule.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Infrastructure, Lands and Housing, Engr. Ayorinde Olawoye, said the NDDC Road spans six kilometres with an average width of 10.3 metres, describing it as critical to mobility in the area.
Stakeholders, including the Chairman of Ilaje Local Government, Moris Oripenaye, and the Olugbo of Ugbo, Oba Frederick Obateru Akinruntan, commended the governor’s leadership and commitment to development, noting that the projects would significantly improve the living standards of residents.
Dignitaries at the event included the Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami; Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Olamide Oladiji; and other top government officials, traditional rulers and political leaders.
