Residents along the Ibadan Circular Road have rejected the corridor set for the project, appealing for the intervention of Governor ‘Seyi Makinde, Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, and Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) over the lingering issue.
They called for improved engagement, transparency, and an end to what they described as selective actions affecting their communities, urging the Oyo State government to adhere strictly to the gazetted 75 metres on both sides of the road.
The affected residents, comprising community leaders, stakeholders, policymakers, and concerned citizens, made the demands when they staged a peaceful protest to express their concerns about the development around the Ibadan Circular Road.
Speaking on behalf of the protesters, secretary of the affected residents, Olajide Abass, urged the government to respect the original acquisition framework of 75 metres for the corridor on both sides, as established and gazetted during the administration of Rashidi Ladoja in 2006.
He also called for adequate compensation to be paid to all affected property owners within the right of way before any demolition would be carried out along the corridor, including those whose properties had previously been affected without compensation.
Abass also appealed for the preservation of existing communities located beyond the gazetted boundary, stressing that such areas should be excluded from any additional acquisition or expansion plans.
He expressed confidence that constructive dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders would lead to fair and lasting solutions, beneficial to both the government and residents.
The protesting residents also called for sustained advocacy and timely intervention to protect the welfare and rights of those affected by the Ibadan Circular Road project.
They also urged the state government to prioritise fairness, inclusiveness, and transparency in its engagement with host communities.
