The Oyo State Government has commenced the payment of compensation to property owners affected by the ongoing expansion and asphaltic reconstruction of the Ojoo–Akinyele Road in Ibadan.

The government said the exercise is part of efforts to ensure fairness and balance between infrastructure development and the rights of residents impacted by the project.

The Commissioner for Lands, Housing and Urban Development, Williams Akin-Funmilayo, disclosed this during an interactive session with affected property owners and the compensation exercise.

According to a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, the payment process was approved by the government to ensure that no resident is unfairly treated during development projects.

He said infrastructure development remains central to the state’s economic growth agenda, adding that the road project will enhance commercial activities and improve connectivity.

“No development should bring negative consequences to the members of the public, as the development of infrastructure being experienced in the state is aimed at expanding the economy of the state and to make it a business hub among other states,” he said.

He added that the completed road project would boost agricultural business, open new investment opportunities, and support major economic infrastructure such as inland dry ports, railway stations, and the Circular Road project.

The statement further noted that Governor Seyi Makinde has directed the ministry to ensure prompt processing of documentation for all affected property owners.

A standing committee on verification and compensation has been established, headed by the Executive Assistant on Security to the Governor, retired CP Sunday Babatunde Odukoya.

According to the government, 65 property owners were identified in the first phase of the exercise, out of which 22 have already been verified and paid, while others are still undergoing verification.

The state government also warned against bribery, urging affected residents to report any official requesting gratification.

Some beneficiaries, including Kayode Adebayo and Alimot Tolulope, commended the government for the compensation exercise, describing it as unexpected and commendable.

Officials present at the exercise included the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Hakim Audu, alongside other senior directors.

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The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, has identified land grabbing as the biggest challenge facing residents and indigenes of Ibadan.

Speaking at his Bodija residence during the Eid al-Fitr celebration, the monarch said the issue has persisted for years and continues to hinder the city’s social and economic development.

On security concerns, Ladoja said efforts are ongoing to curb criminal activities in the city, including recent cases of kidnapping. He clarified that such incidents are not linked to Fulani herdsmen but are largely driven by criminal elements seeking financial gain.

According to him, security agencies have recorded arrests in connection with some of the incidents, indicating that authorities are responding effectively. He maintained that while security challenges exist, they are being addressed promptly through collaboration between traditional institutions and government agencies.

The Olubadan urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with authorities, stressing that tackling land grabbing remains a top priority for sustaining growth and attracting investment in Ibadan.

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