Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has cautioned against attempts to create tension among residents of Tongegi Island and other communities over ongoing oil exploration in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area, stressing that the exercise is being handled exclusively by the Federal Government.
The governor spoke on Tuesday while commissioning the Abeokuta–Obalende and Osinubi New Roads in Ijebu-Ode. He explained that the oil exploration was initiated and is being carried out by the Federal Government through the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), and not by the Ogun State Government.
Abiodun said that while hydrocarbon deposits have been identified in parts of Ogun Waterside, including Tongegi Island, there is no confirmation yet that the deposits exist in commercial quantities. He dismissed allegations of fund diversion linked to the exploration, describing them as false, misleading and politically driven.
According to the governor, reports of crude-like substances emerging from the ground prompted technical investigations by the NNPCL. Preliminary tests, he said, indicated the possible presence of hydrocarbons, but further drilling is required to determine commercial viability.
“After the initial tests, I was informed that oil had been discovered in Ogun State. However, drilling must be carried out to confirm whether it exists in commercial quantities, and that process was approved by Mr President,” Abiodun said.
He added that security at the exploration site has been strengthened, noting that a Naval Base has already been established near the oil well to protect national assets.
Abiodun also expressed concern over what he described as the misrepresentation of his comments in some media reports, which he said led to unnecessary controversy.
“At no time did I say that commercial drilling had started at Tongegi Island. What we have are encouraging signs, not confirmation of commercial quantities,” he said.
The governor further disclosed that a Naval post has been established on Tongegi Island, while approval has been granted by the Chief of Naval Staff for a Forward Operating Base to enhance security in the area.
Commending President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Abiodun said the planned revival of the Olokola Deep Sea Port project would significantly boost Ogun State’s economy. He added that the President has directed that visible progress be made on the project within the next year.
On infrastructure, the governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to road development across the state, saying performance remains the government’s response to critics.
He revealed that more than 20 township roads have been rehabilitated in Ijebu-Ode, including Awujale Road, Ijebu-Ode–Epe–Mojoda Road, Molipa–Fusigboye Road, Stadium–Luba–Gateway Annex Road, Imoru Road, Tam-Balogun Road and Osinubi Road, with more projects ongoing.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Ade Akinsanya, said the newly commissioned roads would improve connectivity, reduce travel time and boost economic activities in the area.
The Chairman of Ijebu-Ode Local Government, Hon. Dare Alebiosu, said the improved road network has enhanced commercial activities and increased public confidence in the 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 support trading activities.
Traditional rulers and community leaders at the event commended the governor for delivering projects they described as timely and impactful, noting that the developments would accelerate growth in the area.
