Hundreds of homeowners along the Ibadan Circular Road have taken to the streets to voice their grievances. The protesters are calling for urgent intervention from Governor Seyi Makinde and the Olubadan of Ibadanland to resolve a lingering dispute over land acquisition.
Protesters Reject Expanded Road Corridor
While the community leaders clarified they support the road project itself, they firmly reject the current “corridor” expansion. The group is urging the Oyo State Government to stick to the original 75-metre boundary on both sides of the road, as established in the 2006 gazette.
During the peaceful demonstration, residents displayed placards highlighting their fears. Many fear losing homes that sit outside the original project scope.
A Plea for Legal Boundaries
Olajide Abass, the Secretary for the affected residents, spoke on behalf of the group. He insisted that the government must respect the framework set during the administration of former Governor Rashidi Ladoja.
“The government should respect the original acquisition framework of 75 metres on both sides, as established and gazetted during the administration of Rashidi Ladoja in 2006,” Abass stated.
The group also demanded that the state must pay fair compensation to property owners before any further demolition takes place. This includes people whose houses were already pulled down without any financial relief.
Seeking Help from Ibadan Elders
Beyond the Governor, the residents are seeking help from high-ranking traditional and social pillars. This includes the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) and the Olubadan.
Abass expressed his hope that “constructive dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders would lead to fair and lasting solutions beneficial to both the government and residents.”
The protesters are asking for the Circular Road Corridor to be managed with transparency. They believe that preserving existing communities beyond the 75-metre mark is vital for the welfare of the citizens.
