Abiodun Commissions Roads in Ijebu-Ode, Clarifies Ogun Oil Exploration

Ogun State Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun has cautioned against attempts to sow division among residents of Tongegi Island and other parts of the state over ongoing oil exploration activities in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area.
The governor gave the warning on Tuesday while commissioning the Abeokuta–Obalende Road and Osinubi New Road in Ijebu-Ode. He clarified that the oil exploration exercise is being undertaken by the federal government through the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), not the Ogun State Government.

Abiodun explained that although hydrocarbon deposits have been identified in parts of Ogun Waterside, including Tongegi Island, their commercial viability has not yet been confirmed. He dismissed claims that funds earmarked for oil exploration had been diverted, describing the allegations as misleading and politically motivated.
According to the governor, the discovery followed reports of crude-like substances seeping from the ground, which prompted technical investigations by the NNPCL.
“After conducting preliminary tests, they informed me that oil had been discovered in Ogun State. However, drilling is required to determine whether it exists in commercial quantity, and that process was approved by Mr. President,” he said.

He added that security around the drilling area has been significantly enhanced, noting that a Naval Base has already been established near the oil well to protect national assets.
The governor also expressed concern over what he described as the misrepresentation of his comments in some sections of the media, which he said led to unnecessary controversy.
“At no time did I say that commercial drilling had commenced at Tongegi Island. What we have are promising indications, not confirmation of oil in commercial quantity,” Abiodun stressed.

He further disclosed that a Naval post has been established on Tongegi Island, with approval granted by the Chief of Naval Staff for a Forward Operating Base to strengthen Nigeria’s territorial presence in the area.
Commending President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the governor, said the revival of the Olokola Deep Sea Port project would significantly boost Ogun State’s economic prospects. He added that the President has directed that visible progress be made on the project within the next year.
On infrastructure development, Abiodun reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to expanding and rehabilitating road networks across the state, noting that performance—not rhetoric—remains the government’s response to criticism.

He disclosed that over 20 township roads have been reconstructed in Ijebu-Ode, including Awujale Road, Ijebu-Ode–Epe–Mojoda Road, Molipa–Fusigboye Road, Stadium–Luba–Gateway Annex Road, Imoru Road, Tam-Balogun Road, Osinubi Road, among others, with additional projects currently ongoing.
Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Ade Akinsanya said the completed roads were executed to improve connectivity, reduce travel time, and stimulate local economic activities.
Chairman of Ijebu-Ode Local Government, Hon. Dare Alebiosu noted that the improved road network has boosted economic activities and strengthened public confidence in government.

Also speaking, the lawmaker representing Ijebu-Ode, Ijebu North-East, and Odogbolu Federal Constituency, Barr. Femi Ogunbanwo praised the governor for his consistent investment in infrastructure across Ijebu land.
Market leaders, represented by the Otun Akile Iyaloja of Ijebu-Ode, Mrs. Kikelomo Olufunmi said the roads would ease the movement of goods and enhance trading activities.
Traditional rulers and community leaders present at the event commended the governor for delivering on his promises, describing the projects as timely and impactful for the development of the area.