The lawmaker representing Ipokia/Idiroko Constituency in the Ogun State House of Assembly, Hon. Bisi Oyedele, also known as Citiside, has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to lift the ban on fuel supply to communities located within 20 kilometres of Nigeria’s borders.
The fuel supply restriction, introduced to stop smuggling to neighbouring countries, has caused serious hardship for people living in Ogun border areas. Even after fuel subsidies were removed, the ban is still in place, leaving residents to depend on expensive black-market fuel.
In a statement released on Sunday, Oyedele described the policy as outdated, unfair, and harmful to the economy of Ogun West. He urged the Federal Government to review it, saying it now punishes innocent citizens rather than stopping smugglers.
“The 20-kilometre fuel restriction no longer serves its purpose. It has only made life difficult for law-abiding residents who need fuel for their vehicles, businesses, and homes. I appeal to the Federal Government to lift this outdated ban and ease the suffering of our people,” he said.
Oyedele also called for the revival of the Ogun State Polytechnic, Ipokia, which was started during former Governor Ibikunle Amosun’s administration but has been abandoned. He made the call during the commissioning of several constituency projects in Ipokia Local Government Area.
The projects include the renovation of the Primary Health Centre in Iporan, construction of three-classroom blocks at IPLG Primary Schools in Ijofin and Ojuroko, Idiroko, and the installation of four motorised boreholes in Ihunbo, Vatipa, Ibatefin, and Oniro-Agude.
The event was attended by the Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Oludaisi Elemide, other lawmakers, community leaders, and royal fathers.
Oyedele emphasised the economic potential of Ipokia as a key link between Ogun State and other West African countries. He urged both the state and federal governments to prioritise the proposed Ipokia–Badagry Link Bridge, describing it as vital for trade, tourism, and industrial growth.
“This bridge is not just a road connection; it’s an economic lifeline that will promote business between Ogun, Lagos, and neighbouring West African countries. It should be treated as a priority,” he said.
He further stressed the importance of the Ogun State Polytechnic, Ipokia, calling it a “symbol of fairness and opportunity” for youths in Ogun West.
“I have raised this issue many times in the Assembly, and I’m confident Governor Dapo Abiodun will make the school’s take-off part of his lasting legacy. We must not rest until the Polytechnic becomes operational,” Oyedele added.
He thanked Governor Abiodun for his people-centered leadership and for supporting lawmakers in delivering projects that directly benefit their communities. He also praised Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola (Yayi) for his constant support and impactful leadership across various sectors.
Royal fathers and community leaders at the event commended Oyedele for his dedication, humility, and visible contributions to the development of Ipokia. They described him as a representative who has brought pride and progress to the area.
Residents and political stakeholders also praised his achievements and expressed their continued support for his leadership.
