Are-Ekiti indigenes seek Oyebanji’s intervention on key roads
Residents of Are-Ekiti, located in Irepodun/Ifelodun of Ekiti State, are urging Governor Biodun Oyebanji to expedite the rehabilitation and reconstruction of key roads that connect their community to neighboring towns. They have highlighted the Are-Iworoko-Afao-Igbemo road as essential for the economic development and connectivity of the region.
In addition, the community has called for the timely completion of the ongoing Are-Oye-Ekiti road project. They believe that enhanced road infrastructure will create new economic opportunities and facilitate smoother transportation for residents and commuters.
Professor Michael Oke, President of the Are-Ekiti Progressives Union (APU) and Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti, made these appeals during a press conference held ahead of the 2026 Are-Ekiti Day celebration, set for Saturday, November 21.
Oke acknowledged the positive strides made by the Oyebanji administration, particularly regarding ongoing road projects in the area. However, he emphasized the necessity for further government intervention to improve the poor condition of several major access roads.
He specifically pointed out the Are-Iworoko-Afao-Igbemo road as a top priority, asserting that its repair would enhance connectivity for surrounding communities and improve access to the state capital. “We appreciate Governor Oyebanji for the infrastructure projects in our region, including the roads linking Iworoko through Are to Afao and Igbemo, as well as the current efforts on the Are-Oye road,” Oke said.
“However, we still have some important roads that require urgent attention. The Are-Iworoko-Afao-Igbemo road is currently in a bad state, and we request the governor’s assistance in its rehabilitation or, preferably, its reconstruction. This road connects several communities and, with proper reconstruction, will facilitate movement, stimulate economic activities, and complement other existing infrastructure projects,” he continued.
Oke also explained that the annual Are-Ekiti Day celebration aims to showcase the community’s rich cultural heritage and provide a platform for both local residents and those in the diaspora to discuss issues affecting their ancestral town’s development.
A highlight of this year’s celebration will be the launch of a N500 million resource center for the community. Oke described this initiative as a significant development that would serve as a lasting institutional and intellectual asset for both present and future generations.
“We believe Are-Ekiti is ready to have its own resource center. That is why we are coming together to launch this N500 million project. We expect support from our sons and daughters, both in the community and abroad, as well as from friends of Are-Ekiti,” Oke said.
