The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Ondo State has faulted the state government’s N3.69 billion Chief Reuben Fasoranti Park project, describing it as poorly timed and insensitive amid prevailing economic hardship.
Speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, in Akure on Sunday, Ondo State PDP Chairman, Mr Modupe Aisida, said the project showed misplaced priorities, especially as many critical sectors remain neglected.
The Ondo State Government had, in April 2025, approved N3.69 billion for the upgrade and vertical expansion of the park located opposite the Governor’s Office Complex in Alagbaka.
Aisida noted that the project would gulp about one per cent of the state’s 2026 capital expenditure, arguing that such funds should be channelled to more urgent needs.
“It is disturbing that such a huge amount is being spent on a park directly in front of the Governor’s Office while schools are dilapidated and health centres are in terrible condition,” he said.
He questioned the choice of location, describing the project as unnecessary and inappropriate for an area meant for official government activities, adding that parks should be sited in places meant for relaxation.
“That means that one per cent of the capital expenditure of the state’s budget in 2026, with a budget of six million, is being spent on a park in front of the Governor’s Office.
“And if you want to build a park, should it be opposite the government secretariat, where they are doing serious work, a powerhouse of the government.
“Park should be a place of relaxation where people think they can be on their own. It’s really laughable,” he said.
The Ondo PDP chairman further accused the administration of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of failing to prioritise housing, education and healthcare, stressing that the state faces a serious housing deficit.
According to him, the government has focused more on displacing civil servants from Alagbaka while proposing housing for political office holders, instead of addressing the needs of ordinary citizens.
Aisida also criticised the prolonged delay in completing the Shagari Estate flyover, which he said has remained unfinished for over two years.
