Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, has reassured house owners along the Circular Road corridor of his administration’s commitment to fairness, transparency, and due compensation in ongoing construction activities within the zone.
The governor gave the assurance on Wednesday while addressing affected house owners and leadership of community associations, including demolition victims within the designated setback areas of the Circular Road project.
Makinde emphasised that his government remains accountable to the people who elected him and would not abandon critical infrastructure projects for future administrations to inherit.
“You installed this government. And if, for over the past six plus years, this government did not fail you, it means we will still not fail you,” he said. “When most governors get to this point in office, they stop executing major projects because they are about to leave. But that only transfers problems to the next administration.”
The governor explained that parts of the ongoing Circular Road project fall directly within built-up areas, noting that many homes were already erected on the designated road alignment before construction commenced.
He revealed that compensation had been paid to legitimately affected property owners in segments already worked on.
Makinde outlined the three segments of the 110km Circular Road, noting that the 32km stretch from the Technical University to the Ibadan–Ife Road at Badeku is nearing completion.
“Within the next three months, we should be done with that segment. We faced similar challenges there too, as some people’s bedrooms were already on the road,” he said.
The governor clarified issues surrounding setbacks, stating that the administration had approved a 150-metre limit in built-up areas to accommodate the rapid transfer network expected to run at speeds of 80–100km per hour.
“There is a highway code for setback. Even a single-lane federal highway requires 50 metres. So if anyone marks beyond 150 metres here, disregard it. If they mark your house outside the 150 metres, disregard it,” he declared.
Makinde announced that the New Town and Cities Development Authority would henceforth serve as the sole interface between government and affected communities, eliminating confusion from multiple agencies.
“You will set up your team, they will set up theirs, and you will deal directly. No house will be demolished without compensation,” he assured.
The governor stressed that while residents reserve the right to protest, the economic activities of others must also be considered.
He commended the community for being organised and pledged continuous engagement until all concerns are resolved.
Makinde also referenced the 2018 setback gazette, noting that he was not in government when it was issued but has ensured its application in a more realistic manner to avoid undue hardship for residents.
“In built-up areas, we won’t go beyond the approved setback. That is exactly what we did in Badeku. We cannot do 500 metres on both sides in a place like this,” he said.
Reiterating his readiness to work with community representatives, Makinde urged them to expand their leadership team from six to ten members for more inclusive engagement.
“I am not the most perfect human being. Only God is perfect. Where there are mistakes, we are ready to listen. This is your government,” he said. “I can assure you that we will solve this problem and will not leave it for another administration.”
