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FG Stops Controversial Relocation of Osun Airport to Ede Amid Protests Against Gov Adeleke

Published by admin on December 10th, 2024.

FG Stops Controversial Relocation of Osun Airport to Ede Amid Protests Against Gov Adeleke

The federal government has put on hold the planned relocation of the Osun State International Airport project from Ido-Osun to Ede due to growing protests and public backlash.

Governor Ademola Adeleke had announced that the foundation-laying ceremony for the new airport would take place on December 16, 2024, in Ede, his hometown. High-ranking officials, including the Ministers of Works and Aviation, David Umahi and Festus Keyamo, were expected to attend the event.

However, the decision to move the airport project sparked strong criticism. The Ido-Osun community organized protests, accusing the state government of prioritizing personal interests over the public good. Critics labeled the move as politically motivated and undemocratic.

In response, the Osun state government defended the relocation, citing issues such as encroachment on the Ido-Osun airport land, the presence of gulleys, and an inadequate runway as reasons for the decision.

On December 6, 2024, the Federal Ministry of Aviation issued a letter, signed by Dr. Emmanuel D. Meribole, the Permanent Secretary, requesting the Osun state government to suspend the project indefinitely. The letter, obtained by The Nation, read: “Re: Invitation as a Special Guest of Honour at the Foundation Laying Ceremony of the Osun State International Airport. I wish to refer to your letter Ref. No. 5.12/19/1/Vol.VI/188 dated 21st November 2024 on the above subject and to respectfully request Your Excellency to suspend the foundation laying ceremony of the Osun State International Airport until the issues regarding the petitions over the existing airstrip/airport are resolved and to harmonize the state’s efforts with that of the federal government.”

This development represents a major setback for Governor Adeleke’s administration, as the dispute over the airport’s location and funding continues.

The letter further stated that the existing airstrip is part of a federal project included in the Ministry’s 2024 budget. It also pointed to a petition suggesting that resources already invested in the Ido-Osun site should not be disregarded in favor of a new location. The Ministry emphasized the need for cooperation between the state and federal governments to avoid wasting public funds.

The Ministry’s communication concluded with a request to reschedule the foundation-laying ceremony until the disputes and petitions are resolved and a mutually agreeable date is selected.