Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa
The All Progressives Congress, APC, in Ondo State on Tuesday debunked what it called false alarm on the $50 billion Sunshine Free Trade Zone and Refinery Project deal struck recently by the state government.
In a statement titled “RE: False Alarm Over Ondo $50 Billion Refinery Deal Facts Over Fiction”, and signed by its Director of Media and Publicity, Mr. Steve Otaloro, the party said the project is not imposing any financial burden on the state contrary to a recent report.
APC is the ruling party in the state.
According to the statement, “The All Progressives Congress (APC), Ondo State Chapter, deems it necessary to set the record straight and prevent well-meaning citizens of our state and Nigerians at large from being misled by misinformation currently being circulated regarding the proposed $50 billion Sunshine Free Trade Zone and Refinery Project.
*The publication in question, which seeks to discredit this landmark initiative, is not only misleading but also built on hasty conclusions, poor investigation, and an obvious bias against progress. It is unfortunate that, instead of applauding a major industrial breakthrough capable of transforming Ondo’s economy, some individuals have chosen to indulge in baseless speculation.
“Let it be clearly stated that the Ondo State Government is not committing taxpayers’ money to this project. The proposed investment is entirely private-sector–driven. The investors are providing the funding and assuming all financial risks.
“The only contribution from the state government is the provision of land a standard practice globally for projects of this scale and significance, particularly one with enormous potential for job creation, infrastructure development, and long-term economic growth.
“Therefore, the question of any financial burden on the state or its citizens simply does not arise. If credible investors are ready to commit their resources to industrialise our state, this should be a matter of celebration, not suspicion.
“The author of the misleading article failed in the most basic duty of responsible journalism verification. Rather than seek clarification from the government or the investors, he chose to construct a narrative based on shallow online searches and incomplete company filings. That is not investigative journalism; it is irresponsible reporting masquerading as analysis.
“Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa has demonstrated transparency and foresight in his determination to open up Ondo State for investment, create employment opportunities for our youth, and diversify the state’s economy away from overdependence on federal allocation. These are bold and commendable steps that every patriotic citizen should support.
“It is worrisome that some commentators appear more eager to ridicule innovative ideas than to verify facts. This same culture of cynicism and hesitation cost Ondo State the opportunity to host the Dangote Refinery, which was initially proposed to be sited here before being relocated to Lagos due to unnecessary bureaucracy and public doubt. Today, Lagos is reaping the rewards, while the sceptics remain trapped in regret.
“To those quick to raise alarm over this project, let us pose a few simple questions:
• Is Ondo State borrowing any money for this project? No.
• Are the investors credible enough to take on their own risks? Yes.
• Will Ondo State lose anything if the project fails to proceed? Absolutely not.
“Until verifiable evidence proves otherwise, we urge the public not to give traction to one-sided reports fabricated by individuals who neither verified facts with the government nor engaged the investors involved. Responsible reporting requires balance, not baseless insinuations.
“The APC Ondo State Chapter therefore commends Governor Aiyedatiwa for his commitment to attracting large-scale investment to the state. Development cannot thrive in an atmosphere of fear and cynicism. It requires bold leadership, open-mindedness, and collective support.
“We call on all well-meaning citizens to focus on what truly matters – the promise of industrial growth, employment for our youth, and a more prosperous future for the Sunshine State. Let us unite behind the governor’s vision and allow progress to speak louder than propaganda.”
