Residents of Ibadan living along the proposed circular road corridor have expressed their outrage over the ongoing demolitions carried out by the Oyo State government. They claim these actions have displaced over 300,000 people and caused significant trauma and emotional distress within the community.
The affected local governments include Ido, Akinyele, Oluyole, Ona-Ara, Egbeda, and Lagelu. Residents from these areas have united in their condemnation of the government’s actions, labeling them as inhumane and a betrayal of the trust placed in the administration by the electorate.
In a press conference held over the weekend, Chairman of the concerned residents, Adedeji Ahmed, highlighted the widespread fear and uncertainty faced by those affected. He pointed out that the governor’s plan to extend the road setback to 500 meters on both sides, compared to the previous administration’s 75-meter limit, has exacerbated their concerns.
Ahmed argued that this drastic change is unnecessary and hinted at deeper issues, as rumors suggest the land could be used for private estates benefiting the governor and his associates. He expressed dismay over the lack of communication from Governor Makinde, noting that the government has not addressed their concerns despite numerous rallies, letters, and public engagements.
The press conference also addressed statements from various political parties, including the APC and AAC, which criticized the current administration’s approach as land grabbing and privatization of state assets. Concerns were raised about similar measures potentially causing widespread disruption in other regions of the state, such as Saki and Oke-Ogun.
Ahmed urged the Oyo State House of Assembly, the Olubadan of Ibadan, and local community leaders to intervene and hold the government accountable. He called on Governor Makinde to publicly clarify the rationale behind the expanded road setback and to reconsider the current demolition plans in favor of the previously established guidelines.
“Our demand is simple: halt the current plans and revert to the gazetted initial plan of 75 meters by left and 75 meters by right, as established by former Governor Rashidi Ladoja,” Ahmed stated.