The Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission has said it committed about N400 million to relief materials and reconstruction efforts for communities affected by recent tensions involving some Ilaje residents and naval personnel.
Speaking during the distribution exercise, OSOPADEC Executive Chairman, Olabiyi Olaleye Poroye, explained that the intervention was designed to ease the hardship faced by victims and restore normalcy in the affected riverine communities.
According to him, items distributed include mattresses, food supplies, washing machines and other household essentials, alongside construction support for damaged buildings.
“The objective is to reduce the suffering of those affected and ensure that what was approved is used for visible and measurable impact,” he said.
Poroye stated that the N400 million approved by Ondo State Governor, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, was fully deployed for both relief distribution and rebuilding efforts.
He emphasised that the Commission opted for direct material support rather than cash disbursement to ensure transparency and accountability.
“You cannot just hand over money without accountability. What you see here are tangible results of the funds approved,” he added.
Highlighting other interventions by the Commission, Poroye noted that several infrastructure projects have been completed across mandate communities, including about seven jetties, as well as the rehabilitation of the long-abandoned Agadagba hospital and renovation of schools within Ilaje axis.
Also speaking, Chairman of the OSOPADEC Palliative Committee, Ola Judah, described the exercise as a structured and impact-driven response.
He disclosed that the committee facilitated the construction of 12 housing units and the rehabilitation of 14 others to support displaced families.
Judah added that economic recovery remains a key component of the intervention, with the provision of 15 Yamaha outboard engines, 13 fishing boats and the establishment of a modern bakery to boost local productivity.
“This is not just a ceremonial exercise. It is a deliberate effort to restore stability and improve living conditions for affected residents,” he said.
The intervention is part of broader efforts by OSOPADEC to strengthen resilience and promote sustainable development in Ilaje communities.
Report by Arogbo-Ibe Voice Reporters