The member representing Ipokia/Idiroko Constituency in the Ogun State House of Assembly, Hon. Bisi Oyedele, fondly called Citiside, has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to lift the ban on the supply of petroleum products to communities located within 20 kilometres of Nigeria’s borders.

Fuel supply restrictions in Ogun’s border communities — primarily the 20-kilometre ban — were imposed to curb smuggling to neighbouring countries, but they have since caused significant economic hardship for residents.

Despite the removal of fuel subsidies, the ban remains in place, with only limited waivers granted, forcing many residents to rely on expensive black-market fuel.

Oyedele, in a statement made available to journalists on Sunday, lamented the hardship the policy has caused residents of border communities over the years, describing it as “outdated, unjust, and counterproductive to the economic survival of the people of Ogun West Senatorial District.”

The lawmaker also called for the revival of the Ogun State Polytechnic, Ipokia, which was initiated towards the end of former Governor Ibikunle Amosun’s administration but has since been abandoned.

Oyedele made the call during the commissioning of constituency projects across Ipokia Local Government Area.

Some of the projects included the renovation and remodeling of the Primary Health Centre, Iporan; the construction of blocks of three classrooms each at IPLG Primary School, Ijofin, and IPLG Primary School, Ojuroko, Idiroko; as well as the provision of four motorized boreholes in Ihunbo, Vatipa, Ibatefin, and Oniro-Agude.

The event was attended by the Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Oludaisi Elemide, alongside other lawmakers, political leaders, royal fathers, and community stakeholders from across the constituency.

Oyedele noted that the restriction, introduced more than five years ago to curb smuggling, has now become a source of severe hardship for innocent residents who depend on fuel for their daily activities.

He recalled that in November 2019, the Federal Government, through the Nigeria Customs Service, directed that petroleum products should not be supplied to filling stations located within 20 kilometres of the country’s borders, claiming the move was to protect the national economy and curb smuggling.

He said, “This 20-kilometre petroleum restriction has lost its essence. Instead of stopping smuggling, it has punished law-abiding citizens who can no longer access fuel for their vehicles, businesses, and homes. I am appealing to the Federal Government to immediately lift this outdated policy and give relief to our people.”

The lawmaker described Ipokia Local Government as an area with immense economic potential, particularly as a gateway linking Ogun State to the West African corridor.

He expressed concern that despite its strategic position, the area continues to suffer neglect in terms of infrastructure and connectivity.

Oyedele urged both the state and federal governments to fast-track work on the proposed Ipokia–Badagry Link Bridge, describing it as a crucial project that would open up the border communities to trade, tourism, and industrial opportunities.

“This bridge is not just a road connection; it is an economic lifeline that will boost commerce between Ogun, Lagos, and neighbouring West African nations. I therefore call on both the Federal and State Governments to prioritise this project in the spirit of balanced regional development,” he said.

He also renewed his call for the immediate take-off of the Ogun State Polytechnic, Ipokia, describing the institution as a “symbol of fairness and opportunity” for the youth of Ogun West.

“The Ogun State Polytechnic, Ipokia, remains a beacon of hope for our young people. I have consistently raised this issue on the floor of the Assembly, and I am confident that Governor Dapo Abiodun will ensure that the take-off of the institution becomes part of his enduring legacy. We must not rest until the Ipokia Polytechnic comes alive,” Oyedele stated.

He commended Governor Dapo Abiodun for his people-oriented leadership and for providing an enabling environment that allows lawmakers to deliver meaningful projects to their constituencies.

He also lauded the Senator representing Ogun West, Solomon Olamilekan Adeola (Yayi), for his continuous support and interventions, describing him as “a visionary leader whose impact cuts across all sectors.”

Royal fathers and community leaders present at the event praised Oyedele for bringing pride, dignity, and visibility to Ipokia land, commending his accessibility, humility, and passion for development.

Residents and political stakeholders also applauded the lawmaker’s achievements and reaffirmed their support for his continued representation.