Citizens Lament Cancellation Of Tinubu’s ‘Touch Bearer’ Event, Demand Urgent Rehab Of Ilaji Road

Concerned citizens in Oyo State have expressed disappointment over the cancellation of the *”Tinubu’s Touch Bearer”* event earlier scheduled for *August 31* at Ilaji Hotel and Sports Resort, Ibadan, blaming the poor condition of the access road for the development.

In a statement on Saturday, the group described the cancellation as “deeply painful and disappointing,” while commending the management of Ilaji, particularly *Chief Jubril Dotun Sanusi*, the Gbonka Olubadan and Okanlomo Odua, for the support and commitment shown towards hosting the event.

The citizens said the hospitality, facilities and resources provided by Ilaji management in anticipation of the event demonstrated goodwill and commitment to the promotion of Oyo State.

However, they noted that the cancellation should serve as a wake-up call for urgent intervention on the Ilaji road, which they described as a critical access route to a major economic and tourism destination.

“Ilaji Resort is more than a private facility. It attracts visitors, creates employment, supports businesses and provides facilities capable of hosting major events,” the statement said.

They argued that the road leading to such a facility deserves sustained government attention, adding that poor infrastructure could undermine the economic and tourism potential of the area.

“It is therefore difficult not to feel that the road has been neglected for far too long. Whether the reason is administrative, political or otherwise, the effect is the same: ordinary citizens, businesses, visitors and major events are bearing the consequences,” the group said.

The citizens also sympathized with Chief Sanusi and the Ilaji management over resources already committed to the event, as well as the efforts of those who worked to ensure its success.

“It is particularly heartbreaking that all these preparations have now been affected by a challenge that, in our humble opinion, should have received urgent attention long before now,” they said.

They noted that thousands of people had looked forward to the event and the “comfort, dignity and safety” associated with the Ilaji facility.

“What pains us most is that thousands of people were looking forward to the comfort, dignity and safety that Ilaji Resort offers. The cancellation is therefore more than a change of venue; it represents a missed opportunity to showcase one of Oyo State’s valuable assets,” they added.

The group called for the urgent and lasting rehabilitation of the Ilaji road, stressing that the intervention should not be limited to one event but should reflect the road’s importance to tourism, enterprise, employment and the broader economic development of the state.

They appreciated everyone who contributed to the preparations, particularly Chief Jubril Dotun Sanusi and the management of Ilaji, and expressed hope that the setback would become a catalyst for the long-overdue improvement of the road.