MEDIA CHAT: Makinde Pledges Immediate Clearance of Over ₦6bn in Compensation, Faults Politicisation of Circular Road Project

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has assured residents affected by the ongoing construction of the Ibadan Circular Road that the state government will begin clearing outstanding compensation claims, estimated at over ₦6 billion, from this week.

Makinde gave the assurance during a media chat on Fresh FM 105.9 in Ibadan, while responding to questions about persistent complaints from residents affected by the project, particularly over the setback and the payment of compensation.

The governor explained that the Circular Road project had been conceived by previous administrations but remained unexecuted until his administration took up the challenge under the Omituntun administration.

According to him, the project is a major infrastructural undertaking that requires enormous resources, commitment and courage to execute, noting that the difficulties currently being experienced are part of the challenges associated with delivering such a large-scale development.

He said his administration was aware of the concerns raised by affected residents and was continuously working to address the issues arising from the construction.

Makinde also criticised individuals he accused of politicising the development, particularly those promising to return acquired lands to residents without making efforts to visit the project area and assess the situation on the ground.

The governor maintained that the government had plans for the areas surrounding the Circular Road, explaining that the 75-metre setback would be provided in built-up areas, while other sections would be considered for commercial and industrial development.

He said the proposed development would accommodate industries, hospitals, schools and other facilities expected to create economic opportunities for residents of Oyo State, including young graduates.

According to Makinde, the initiative is intended to stimulate economic activities, attract investment and create employment opportunities for the people of the state.

The governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to addressing the concerns of affected property owners, assuring them that the outstanding compensation payments, estimated at over ₦6 billion, would begin to be cleared in the coming weeks, starting from the coming week.

The Ibadan Circular Road is one of the major infrastructure projects being undertaken by the Makinde administration, with the government positioning it as a catalyst for urban expansion, improved transportation and economic growth in Oyo State.