The Oyo State Government, under the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde, has issued a 7-day ultimatum to several institutions and businesses along the Ojoo-Akinyele (Old Oyo Road) corridor to vacate their properties. The directive, issued by the Ministry of Works and Transport, affects the International Institute for Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN) Amuludun FM, filling stations, banks, residential buildings, and other commercial structures.
According to the notice signed by Engr. O. F. Fadare, the government declared these properties as illegal structures erected within the Federal Roads Right-of-Way, citing a 2020 directive from the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing. The letter, titled “Notice for Removal of Structures Illegally Erected on the Federal Roads and Bridges Right-of-Way,” referenced an earlier public notice published in March 2020.
Affected property owners have raised concerns, accusing the state government of overreaching the scope of the original FG directive — which they claim primarily targeted filling stations — and described the current move as sudden and alarming.
Many residents expressed shock, stating they had already provided the necessary setbacks for any planned dualization of the road. They warned that the demolition could ruin businesses, worsen economic hardship, and erode public trust.
Some landlords emphasized that they have fulfilled their civic duties, including paying taxes and levies, and urged the government to reconsider its decision, especially given the prevailing economic climate.
Meanwhile, reports suggest that the demolition is part of a broader plan by the Oyo State Government to dualize the Ojoo-Akinyele road and later seek reimbursement from the Federal Government.
