Soun of Ogbomosoland Urges Tipper Owners to Reduce Sand Prices Amid Economic Hardship
ByAjao Stephen
The Soun of Ogbomosoland, His Imperial Majesty Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, Orumogege III, has called on the Association of Tipper and Quarry Owners in Ogbomosoland to reconsider and reduce the recent increase in the prices of building sands.
The call comes after the association raised the prices of sharp sand, soft sand, and gravel by over 100 percent, attributing the hike to the country’s harsh economic conditions. The drastic increase sparked public outcry, prompting many residents to appeal to the monarch for intervention.
Responding to these concerns, Oba Olaoye summoned a meeting with members of the association, urging them to review their pricing decision. He warned that maintaining the new price regime could negatively impact development and threaten the successful implementation of the 25-year development plan aimed at transforming Ogbomoso.
“I invited you for this discussion due to the widespread complaints following your decision to increase the cost of sand supplies,” the Oba stated in a press release signed by his Coordinating Assistant on Media and Community Relations, Rev. Peter Olaleye.
The monarch revealed that various individuals and groups, including Mr. Afolabi Olaniran, Rev. Samuel Adoye, Hon. Prince Oladele Adeoba, Engr. Dennis Aderinto (JP), and representatives of Ogbomoso Parapo, had expressed their displeasure over the price hike.
While acknowledging the concerns of the tipper owners, Oba Olaoye stressed the need for a balance between business interests and public welfare. He explained his long-term vision for the city’s transformation and emphasized that exorbitant building material costs could hinder progress.
Oba Olaoye also shared his ongoing efforts to attract indigenes in the diaspora to invest in Ogbomoso. However, he noted that many potential investors raised concerns about myths of witchcraft in the town.
“But I assured them that Ogbomoso is now free from such fears. However, I do not want you (tipper owners) to become the new witches and wizards by making development difficult. Instead, I urge you to be partners in progress in the 25-year development plan,” he said.
He further appealed to the association to set moderate prices that would encourage construction activities and attract investments.
“Our focus is on building a smart, model city that will set the pace for others. I expect your association to reduce the prices of sand, and if your reduction is not satisfactory, I will intervene further,” the monarch warned.
He concluded by urging the tipper owners to deliberate on the matter and take action, while offering prayers for their success.
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