The Oyo State Housing Corporation has issued a stern warning to all allottees of undeveloped plots in Owode Housing Estate Phase II, Apata, Ibadan, urging them to commence development immediately or risk losing their lands. The directive comes amid concerns over rising estate insecurity in Oyo State.
The Corporation, led by Chairman Hon. Demola Omotosho, conducted a fact-finding mission to the estate after residents raised complaints that bushy, abandoned plots had become hideouts for criminals carrying out burglary, rape, and violent attacks.
Although the estate was inaugurated nearly 50 years ago, only 20% of it has been developed, leaving close to 1,000 hectares untouched. Omotosho said this neglect created an unsafe environment for residents who had developed their plots.
A recent violent attack on a 76-year-old resident prompted government intervention. Omotosho reminded allottees that the Oyo State Housing Corporation Law of 2001 allows revocation of plots not developed within two years or not fully paid within 12 months.
“These lands were allocated decades ago. Some allottees have held their papers for 25 years without developing the plots. The law is clear: undeveloped plots after two years are subject to revocation. We are not revoking out of sentiment—it is the law,” Omotosho said.
To boost security, the government will establish a Police Post, deploy Amotekun security, and install solar-powered streetlights across the estate. Significant development is expected before June 2026, with similar progress in Ajoda New Town, where 1,000 units are planned.
Residents, including Deacon Idowu Aladejobi, welcomed the move, noting that abandoned plots had facilitated criminal activities. He called for a permanent security presence, especially an Amotekun team.
Other residents expressed optimism that the inspection would mark the beginning of meaningful security and development interventions in the long-neglected estate.
