Rep, Ojo Sunday Makanjuola SMATO Delivers Another 2km Asphalt Road in Oko Town

In another bold demonstration of transformative leadership, Hon. Ojo Sunday Makanjuola (SMATO), Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Solid Minerals and Member representing Ogo-Oluwa/Surulere Federal Constituency, has facilitated another construction and asphalt laying of 2km road in Oko Town, putting an end to more than 12 years of infrastructural neglect in the community.

For over a decade, residents of Oko—the hometown of the immediate past representative who served for twelve years—had lived with deplorable road conditions that hampered movement, trade, and social life. Despite repeated appeals, successive administrations failed to respond, leaving the community in frustration and isolation. Today, under SMATO’s proactive representation, that long chapter of neglect has been rewritten with visible progress.

The newly asphalted 2km stretch stands as one of the most significant infrastructural developments in Oko’s recent history. It has not only restored easy access within the town but has also boosted commercial activities and improved connectivity to neighbouring communities. Local transport operators and market traders have described the project as “a gift that has brought back dignity and development” to the town.

During an on-site inspection, community leader Alhaji Ganiyu Afolabi praised Hon. Makanjuola’s commitment to genuine representation, stating that “what others ignored for over twelve years, SMATO has delivered it in his first and second year in office. This road is not just asphalt—it is a symbol of renewal and a clear sign that leadership has truly changed in Ogo-Oluwa and Surulere.”

The Oko road project adds to SMATO’s growing list of impactful interventions across the constituency. He has previously facilitated 2km asphalt road in 2024 also revived the long-abandoned Oko Water Supply Project, which had been left incomplete for over 12 years; facilitated the installation of an industrial solar mini-grid system at the Oko Community Health Centre to provide sustainable electricity; and donated ₦5 million to strengthen the LAUTECH Teaching Hospital Comprehensive Health Centre in the same town. Each of these projects directly addresses the needs of the people and reflects his vision of inclusive, result-driven governance.

Speaking on the completion of the new road, Hon. Makanjuola reaffirmed his belief that leadership must be measured by the lives it touches and the progress it brings. According to him, “Oko has waited too long for development. What we have done here is not about politics; it is about responsibility. The people deserve roads, water, light, and access to good healthcare, and that is what we are working tirelessly to deliver. My commitment is simple — every community under my representation must feel the impact of governance.”

Residents of Oko have expressed overwhelming gratitude, describing the project as a turning point in their history. Traders, farmers, and transporters alike testified that the road has already reduced travel time, improved business operations, and enhanced access to essential services. Youths in the area have also hailed the project as evidence that SMATO’s leadership is one of substance, not speeches.

As the 2027 elections approach, many see Oko Town as the clearest reflection of SMATO’s legacy in office—a place where promises have turned into progress. The successful delivery of this road, alongside numerous other interventions, has solidified his reputation as a leader who gets results. In the words of a resident, “for twelve years, we were forgotten, but in two years, SMATO has brought us back to life. That is the difference between politics and leadership.”

Indeed, Oko Town today stands as a shining example of what visionary, people-centred representation can achieve. Through actions that speak louder than promises, Hon. Ojo Sunday Makanjuola continues to redefine public service, proving once again that with dedication, sincerity, and focus, even the most neglected communities can rise again.