Okearo Reawakens: A Community's Long-Awaited Transformation Begins"

 

Okearo Reawakens: A Community's Long-Awaited Transformation Begins"

By Sunday Ajibola

The vicissitudes of life govern the world—our world. In the lives of both people and communities, and even inanimate objects, events unfold when the time is right. Often, someone—or a group of people—rises to the occasion to champion the needed change. This truth underpins the timeless wisdom found in the Holy Scriptures: “There is a time for everything.”

For the people of Akure, especially those from Oke-Aro Street, a persistent question has lingered: Why has this area been so neglected in the larger scheme of things? Chief among their concerns has been the deplorable condition of the over 10-kilometre road that links the state capital to the cocoa-rich city of Idanre. When former Governor Akeredolu (Aketi) commenced work on the Ijoka-Idanre road, hopes dimmed for the Okearo-Idanre road. Many assumed it would be forgotten, at least for the foreseeable future.

Yet, Okearo is no minor part of Akure. It is one of the four original quarters that make up the city. Historically, Okearo holds a place of pride among Akure’s most ancient and renowned communities. More significantly, both Oke-Aro and its sister community, Odo-Sae, are unique for producing two of Akure's six original kingmakers—Chief Asae and Chief Aro.
In contemporary Akure, following the development of Oba Adesida/Oyemekun axis and the dualisation of Arakale to Osupa Road (commonly referred to as Hospital Road), one would have expected Oke-Aro to be next in line for infrastructural upgrade. The Adesida/Oyemekun road was dualised decades ago by the military, owing to its status as Akure’s main artery. Later, under Governor Olusegun Mimiko, Arakale was transformed into a dual carriageway—an achievement born of sheer will and determination despite strong opposition.

   Under normal circumstances (though little is ever normal in Nigeria), Oke-Aro should have been the next area of focus. Yet, it was consistently overlooked. This neglect has been a source of deep pain for indigenes, traders, daily commuters, and elders.
Those who repeatedly asked, “When will this road be dualised?” could never have guessed that it would take Governor Lucky Ayedatiwa to bell the cat. Over the years, the road—originally constructed decades ago—had deteriorated into an eyesore and a major obstacle. From the Old Mosalasi-Arakale Junction to the Akure Secondary Commercial area, the road remains passable, fairly so. But from that point to Adofure and beyond, motorists, motorcyclists, and tricycle riders endure endless manoeuvring through potholes and failed portions.
To make matters worse, the road has become too narrow for the volume of traffic it now bears. On rainy days or in the event of even minor accidents, the road quickly descends into chaos and gridlock, sometimes taking hours to navigate. Each time I return to the area, it feels more cramped—there are hardly any open spaces left for children to play or relax.
The reality is that Odo-Sae, Oke-Aro, Iro axis, and their adjoining streets—Eyinke, Alafe, Eleye, Isinkin, Gbangbalogun, Ayelabola, Odole, Iloro—have suffered from long-term government neglect. Past leaders, who were more pragmatic and accountable, prioritised the development of capital cities.

Today’s leaders, by contrast, often build roads in scarcely populated areas. They cannot develop the city, yet, selling and converting public lands for personal use—a disturbing trend, is easy for them.
But what is so important about road construction? Roads are the most visible evidence of infrastructure development. They are shared resources, used by motorists, cyclists, the rich, the poor and pedestrians alike. When roads become impassable, business activities are hindered, and communities become isolated.

Now that Oke-Aro has finally been remembered, we are hopeful that other essential infrastructure will follow—potable water, street lighting, and a greater government presence.
Congratulations to Governor Lucky Ayedatiwa, the Deji of Akure, Oba Ogunlade Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi, the Ekerin iarafa Mefa, Chief Aro, and to all indigenes, residents, and road users of the road. We also express our heartfelt gratitude to the Governor, those who championed and facilitated this long-overdue development.
Today, Oke-Aro proudly joins the league of communities with modern, motorable roads. The journey has been long, but the time for change has finally come.

  Once again, congratulations.