By Damilola Kushimo
Residents of Ilasamaja have continued to appreciate the Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Senator representing Lagos West Senatorial District, Hon. Adeola Olamilekan (Yayi), the Member of House of Representatives in Oshodi-Isolo constituency II, Hon. Ganiyu Johnson, and the outgoing Chairman of Isolo LCDA, Hon. Shamsudeen Olaleye (Shammeh) for the execution of various developmental projects in the community.
The residents said the community had suffered marginalisation in term of infrastructure development but began to experience significant development recently when Godwin-Omonua/Bankole Junction down to Taiwo Street to Fiditi/Salamotu down to Iyana-Itire was renovated as part of the projects facilitated by Hon. Ganiyu Johnson.
Coincidentally, the council chairman, Hon. Shamsudeen Olaleye reconstructed Araromi and Fabiyi Streets.
In addition, a town hall is being constructed in the community by the state government facilitated by the councillor, Hon. Akeem Adeyemi (Alarape). The project has since advanced to the finishing stage.
Senator Olamilekan Yayi has also chosen Ifelodun and Tanimola Streets for reconstruction, as well as the drainage channel on both sides of the streets.
Reacting to the series of developments in the community, Baale of Ilasamaja, High Chief Fatai Abereijo, explained that the developments are the real dividends of democracy the community has been waiting for.
He noted that the development, if sustained and spread to other major areas, will significantly boost business activities in the community which will, in turn, be to the advantage of the council in the area of revenue generation.
His words: “The development that has been happening in our community in the last few months is expected they are long overdue because we are law-abiding citizens of Nigeria. We pay our dues both at the local and state level. So, we must enjoy infrastructure in every aspect. Of course, Ilasamaja has been marginalised for a long and we appreciate those at the helms of affairs for deeming it fit to look into our plights this time around; we are appreciative. To some extent, this development is not something we should be overjoyed about because they are long-overdue and our people complain a lot that what we’ve benefitted as dividends of democracy are not equivalent to our active participation in politics. Ilasamaja should be a mini-LCDA on its own. If all political officeholders at all levels of government are carrying out an infrastructure each in the community, we deserve it and we deserve more.
“We appreciate our MHR for his giant strides on roads infrastructure in our community as well as our council chairman, Hon. Shamsudeen Olaleye, the state government for the town hall as fought for by our councillor and now our Senator, Olamilekan Yayi for the ongoing development on Ifelodun/Tanimola Streets. We are looking forward to the handing over of the town hall now that what is left are just minor works.”
Residents of Ifelodun also expressed their appreciation for the development, saying it would enhance the economic value of the community and ease vehicular movement.
The principal coordinator of Sen. Olamilekan’s activities in Oshodi-Isolo LGA, Hon. Emmanuel Olojede explained that the project is a continuation of his principal’s developmental efforts in the senatorial district, informing the constituents to expect more in Ejigbo and Oshodi as well.
He explained that, if the weather remains friendly, the ongoing project would be completed within one month as he urged the residents to take ownership.
