This decision follows concerns raised by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, regarding disputes over the airport’s location.
Governor Ademola Adeleke’s administration had decided to relocate the airport project from Ido-Osun to Ede, citing technical shortcomings of the original site.
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A state government committee reported that the Ido-Osun site failed to meet basic aviation standards, necessitating the move.
However, this decision has sparked Controversies with the Ido-Osun community strongly opposing the relocation.
In a letter dated December 6, the Ministry of Aviation highlighted the need to address petitions about the site change before proceeding.
The Permanent Secretary, Emmanuel Merinole, stated, “Your Excellency is respectfully requested to suspend the foundation-laying ceremony until the issues regarding the petitions over the existing airstrip/airport are resolved.”
The letter further clarified that the existing airstrip in Ido-Osun is a federal project included in the 2024 budget.
It urged the state government to harmonise its plans with federal objectives, ensuring judicious use of public funds.
“As this Airstrip Project is a collaboration between the State and Federal Governments, it is important we are in synch before the project takes off,” the letter emphasised.
The controversy has revived tensions between the Ede and Ido-Osun communities, with protests erupting earlier in the week.
Many residents of Ido-Osun posited that substantial funds have already been invested in the current site, which they believe should be utilised instead of starting afresh in Ede.
Governor Adeleke’s office has yet to provide an official response to the Federal Government’s request.
Efforts to contact his Chief Press Secretary, Olawale Rasheed, were unsuccessful, as calls and messages went unanswered.
The dispute also raises questions about efficient resource allocation.
The Federal Government’s letter reiterated the importance of avoiding wastage in public projects, a principle it intends to uphold in this case.
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The relocation of the airport project has become a politically sensitive issue, with critics accusing Governor Adeleke of favouring his hometown.
However, his administration maintains that the move is based on technical and economic considerations, not political bias.
For now, the future of the Osun State airport project hangs in the balance as both parties work towards resolving the imbroglio.