The disagreement unfolded after the Obong's call to Governor Dapo Abiodun to address the dire condition of roads, particularly those leading to the Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta (FUNAAB), where the monarch holds the prestigious role of Chancellor.
Speaking during a press briefing held to mark the commencement of the University's 30th convocation ceremony, the revered first-class monarch shared his personal experience traversing the roads that lead to the permanent site of the university.
He underscored the urgency of rectifying the road conditions, regardless of whether they fall under state or federal jurisdiction, in order to alleviate the hardships faced by road users.
Obong Abasi-Otu emphasised, "Let’s take it as a serious matter, it is the problem of the government. Let us do all that we could do to put this road in proper shape. You can step out and go to other states and see what governors have done, irrespective of whether it is federal roads or state roads.
The key is that the structure you have there, that establishment you have there should be well taken care of. I have appealed now hoping that by the next time I come here, the roads will be in their best shape."
However, the Ogun State Government responded with a differing viewpoint, asserting that the monarch should direct his concerns to the federal government.
Ade Akinsanya, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Works, clarified that the Abeokuta-Ibadan road mentioned by the Obong is a federal road and, consequently, falls under the purview of federal authorities.
Akinsanya stated, "Without necessarily joining issues with His Majesty, there is a need to make a clarification. The road about which the revered traditional ruler spoke, namely the Abeokuta-Ibadan road, is a federal road. We are aware that it is residents of Ogun State that inhabit the area but there is still a need to set the records straight."
The Special Adviser noted that the Abeokuta-Ibadan road had been awarded by the Federal Government to Kopek Nigeria Ltd. He also affirmed the Ogun State Government's commitment to addressing road conditions within the state, regardless of their ownership status.
"To be sure, the Prince Dapo Abiodun-led government in Ogun State has, in line with his ISEYA agenda, been giving quality attention to all roads in the state regardless of their ownership status," Akinsanya emphasised.
Moreover, Akinsanya shed light on the financial aspect, highlighting that the state government is yet to receive significant reimbursement from the federal government for funds expended on federal roads.
He listed several roads that have received attention from the state government, including Ijebu-Ode-Mojoda-Epe, Lafenwa-Rounda (with plans for an extension to Alamala), Atan-Lusada-Agbara road, and sections of the Sango Ota-Abeokuta road.
The ongoing discourse underscores the intricate dynamics between state and federal responsibilities and emphasises the need for coordinated efforts to address critical infrastructure issues for the benefit of citizens and the nation's development.
As the conversation evolves, stakeholders are observing how both the state and federal governments will address these concerns to provide effective solutions for road users and ensure the optimal functioning of key road networks.