‎…Launches Reconstruction of Homes, Infrastructure in Crisis-Hit Areas

The Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC) has commenced the distribution of relief materials to residents of Obe-Nla, Obe-Adun and Obe-Jedo in Ilaje Local Government Area, in a major step toward rebuilding communities affected by the October 2025 crisis.

‎The intervention marks a significant phase in the state government’s response to the incident, combining immediate humanitarian support with long-term recovery initiatives aimed at restoring livelihoods and strengthening resilience in the oil-producing communities.

‎Flagging off the exercise at the Commission’s Area Office in Igbokoda, the OSOPADEC Executive Chairman, Prince Olabiyi Olaleye Poroye, described the initiative as a practical demonstration of government’s commitment to alleviating the suffering of affected residents.

‎He said the intervention followed wide consultations with key stakeholders, including traditional rulers, youths and women groups, as well as collaboration with security agencies whose efforts helped maintain stability in the area.

‎Poroye explained that the recovery programme, approved in January 2026 by Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, reflects the administration’s resolve to transform mandate areas through both short-term relief and sustainable development projects.

‎Items distributed to beneficiaries include food supplies, clothing, mattresses and other household essentials to cushion the immediate effects of the crisis on families.

‎Beyond palliatives, the Chairman disclosed that OSOPADEC has initiated several economic and infrastructural projects to accelerate recovery. He noted that outboard engines, including Yamaha 40HP and 15HP units, have been procured to support fishing activities, while construction of boats is ongoing.

‎He added that more than 25 houses have been earmarked for renovation, while severely damaged structures will be rebuilt. According to him, contractors have already been mobilised to sites, with some projects expected to be completed within four to six weeks.

‎Poroye further revealed plans to construct a modern bakery to replace the one destroyed during the crisis, noting that the facility would be equipped with new generators to enhance productivity and sustainability.



‎Chairman of the Palliative Committee, Dr Ola Judah, described the intervention as a well-structured and data-driven response designed to ensure efficiency and transparency.

‎He said the programme is anchored on key areas including data integrity, shelter and infrastructure, economic empowerment and accountability, adding that a verified database of beneficiaries was developed to ensure that assistance reaches those most in need.

‎Judah disclosed that the housing scheme involves the construction of 12 new buildings and the rehabilitation of 14 others to provide shelter for displaced families.

‎On economic support, he said 15 outboard engines and 13 fishing boats have been distributed, alongside plans for the bakery project, stressing that the initiative is aimed at promoting self-reliance rather than dependency.

‎He assured that strict monitoring mechanisms, in partnership with security agencies, have been put in place to prevent diversion of resources and ensure transparency.

‎Both Poroye and Judah called on residents to sustain peace and cooperate with authorities to ensure the success of the recovery programme.

‎Poroye reaffirmed OSOPADEC’s commitment to the affected communities, noting that while the relief distribution signals the end of one phase, the Commission will continue to monitor and complete all ongoing projects.

‎“Our goal is not just to restore what was lost, but to build stronger and more resilient communities,” he said.