Oyo govt begins demolition of illegal structures

By Adejayan Gbenga –

The Oyo State Government has commenced the demolition of illegal structures erected along roadsides and walkways across the state, following the expiration of a 14-day ultimatum earlier issued to the affected traders. The enforcement exercise is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to ensure sanity, safety, and environmental orderliness in public spaces.

According to a statement by the Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority (OYRLEA), the eviction notice served on October 13, 2025, lapsed on Monday, November 3, 2025. The affected traders had also been issued a reminder last week, giving them a grace period to voluntarily remove their structures before enforcement began.

Following the expiration of the ultimatum, the OYRLEA, in collaboration with officials from the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, the Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA), the Environmental Task Force, and security agencies including the Nigeria Police, Amotekun Corps, and other operatives, commenced the demolition exercise on Monday.

The joint enforcement team, led by retired Deputy Commissioner of Police Francis Ojomo and the Chief of Staff to the OYRLEA Chairperson, Mrs. Iyabo Akinbode, began the operation from Airport Junction through Alakia–Adegbayi and extended towards Old Ife Road. The team cleared iron containers, mobile kiosks, makeshift shops, and other unauthorized structures that obstructed pedestrian walkways and road setbacks.

Chairperson of OYRLEA, Honourable Justice Aderonke Adekemi Aderemi (Rtd.), said the agency remains committed to maintaining a safe, orderly, and investor-friendly environment in line with Governor Seyi Makinde’s vision for a cleaner and more organized Oyo State. She emphasized that strict enforcement of the rule of law was necessary to restore public order.

“Our environment must be welcoming and safe for residents and investors alike. This exercise is in line with the mandate of His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde, who prioritizes the welfare and well-being of the people,” Justice Aderemi said. She added that the ongoing clearance was also in preparation for the forthcoming commissioning of the International Airport project in Ibadan.

The OYRLEA boss explained that the demolition followed a series of public sensitisation campaigns and radio announcements urging traders to vacate the affected areas. She noted that despite several warnings, many traders ignored the directive, prompting the government to take decisive action.

Justice Aderemi warned that any trader or individual who returns to the cleared areas to display goods or erect makeshift stalls would face prosecution. She stressed that the state government has adopted a zero-tolerance policy toward the reoccupation of road setbacks and walkways, urging all residents to comply fully with the directive to avoid sanctions.