Makinde Assures Adequate Compensation Before Circular Road Demolition

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has assured residents affected by the Senator Rashidi Ladoja Circular Road project that no demolition will occur without adequate compensation, with all outstanding issues expected to be settled before his administration ends in 2027. The governor’s commitment aims to address concerns about property rights and development setbacks that have stirred tensions among landowners in the road’s corridor.

Speaking during a detailed engagement session with representatives of affected landowners, Makinde emphasised his government’s dedication to fairness and accountability. He reassured that compensation packages will reflect the true value of properties impacted and underscored that no houses will be torn down without proper recompense. Importantly, he highlighted that adjustments would be made to respect the existing development footprint, ensuring that the 150-meter setback rule—a highway code standard for safety and corridor space—will not be exceeded in built-up areas.

The governor’s intervention comes amid wider infrastructural ambitions aiming to ease traffic congestion and boost economic growth in Ibadan and its environs. The Circular Road project, spanning three segments, is designed as a rapid transit network with a minimum speed capacity of 80 to 100 kilometres per hour. Makinde revealed the initial 32-kilometre stretch between Technical University and the Ibadan-Ife Road at Badeku is nearing completion and expected to be finished within three months, despite earlier challenges related to land acquisition and compensation disputes.

Transitioning from immediate concerns, Makinde acknowledged the cooperation of the 38 communities affected by the project and announced that a committee of ten property owners will be appointed to liaise with the New Towns and Cities Development Authority. This collaborative approach seeks to ensure transparent communication between government agencies and community stakeholders and streamline the implementation of the project’s next phases.

Implicit in the governor’s remarks is the recognition of infrastructural development as a balancing act between progress and social justice. By prioritising fair compensation and involving affected communities in decision-making, the administration aims to prevent displacement grievances from undermining the road project’s broader public benefits.