Just In: Governor Makinde Stops Demolitions Along Ibadan Circular Road Corridor Following Protests

In a significant development, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has ordered an immediate stop to further demolitions along the circular road corridor. This decision comes after the governor met with protesters at the state secretariat in Agodi, Ibadan, where he listened to their concerns and addressed their fears.

The protesters, comprising residents and landowners along the corridor, had been opposing the proposed 500-meter setback, which they claimed would displace over 300,000 residents and affect their livelihoods ¹. Governor Makinde assured them that houses within the 500-meter setback would not be demolished and warned against any new constructions on vacant lands.

To address the concerns of affected residents, enumerations will be conducted with representatives of landowners. This move aims to provide a more equitable solution, considering the initial plan of 75 meters left and right of the road setback agreed upon under former Governor Rashidi Ladoja’s administration.

The decision is a significant relief for residents who had been living in fear of displacement and loss of livelihood. The affected local governments, including Oluyole, Ona Ara, Egbeda, Lagelu, Akinyele, and Ido, will likely welcome this development.

It remains to be seen how the state government will balance development projects with residents’ concerns, but for now, Governor Makinde’s decision provides a temporary reprieve for those affected.