Government Moves to Support Affected Property Owners
The Oyo State Government has started paying compensation to property owners affected by the Ojoo/Akinyele road expansion in Ibadan.
Officials said the process supports ongoing infrastructure development while protecting residents’ interests.
Commissioner Explains Government Position
Commissioner for Lands, Housing and Urban Development, Williams Akin-Funmilayo, confirmed the payment during an interactive session with affected residents.
He said the government wants to balance development with fairness.
Government Says No Resident Will Be Shortchanged
The Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, issued a statement on Saturday.
He said the state approved the compensation to ensure fair treatment for all affected persons.
He also stressed that development should not harm citizens.
Road Project Expected to Boost Economy
Oyelade said the Ojoo/Akinyele road expansion will improve economic activity in the area.
He explained that the project will support agriculture and open new business opportunities.
He also mentioned the planned inland dry port, railway station, new town, and Circular Road project.
According to him, these projects will strengthen economic growth across the South-West.
He added that investors will benefit from easier goods clearance at the dry port.
Governor Orders Fast Processing of Payments
Oyelade said Governor Seyi Makinde directed the ministry to speed up documentation.
He added that the governor wants no delay in processing claims of affected property owners.
Committee Handles Verification Process
The government set up a verification and compensation committee.
Retired CP Sunday Babatunde Odukoya heads the committee as Executive Assistant on Security to the Governor.
Officials said the committee ensures transparency in the exercise.
65 Property Owners Identified
According to the statement, the government identified 65 affected property owners in the first phase.
Out of that number, 22 owners have already received payment.
Others still undergo verification before final approval.
Government Warns Against Bribery
The state government warned claimants not to offer bribes.
It also urged residents to report any official who demands gratification.
Officials said complaints should go directly to the commissioner’s office.
Beneficiaries Express Appreciation
Some beneficiaries, including Kayode Adebayo and Alimot Tolulope, praised the government.
They described the compensation as unexpected and timely.
Officials Present at Exercise
Officials at the event included Permanent Secretary Hakim Audu and other directors from the ministry.
