Oyo govt denies demolishing ex-Deputy Governor’s property, says only illegal fence removed

The Oyo State Government has refuted claims that it demolished a property belonging to a former Deputy Governor of the state, Engr. Rauf Olaniyan, describing the report as misleading and unfounded. The government clarified that only an illegal fence obstructing a service road was removed to restore access for residents.

The Commissioner for Lands and Urban Development, Mr Williams Akin-Funmilayo, stated this on Wednesday while addressing journalists during an on-site assessment of the affected location at Temidire Zone 1, along the Bodija/Ojoo Expressway in Ibadan. He explained that no building was pulled down during the exercise.

According to the commissioner, the action followed complaints from community members that a fence had blocked a long-existing service road linking the neighbourhood to the expressway. He noted that officials of the ministry had earlier served Engr. Olaniyan a notice to remove the illegal structure before enforcement was carried out.

Akin-Funmilayo dismissed claims that the action was politically motivated, stressing that the government acted strictly within the law. He said there was no structure on the land in question, apart from a fence and some construction equipment, adding that it was impossible for the government to have demolished a non-existent building.

The commissioner further explained that the affected area falls within a recognised road setback and an existing service road that has been in use for over 30 years. He added that while a temporary setback release was granted by the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, it clearly stated that no permanent structure should be erected on the land.

He maintained that physical development is regulated by the state government and that any action capable of disrupting peaceful coexistence would not be tolerated. He also warned that the government would continue to enforce the law where residents fail to comply after due notice.

On whether adequate notice was served, Akin-Funmilayo confirmed that notices were issued and said enforcement only became necessary after non-compliance. He added that the government would not allow any individual to make life difficult for others by blocking access roads.

Speaking on behalf of the community, residents including Mr Yusuf Bolaji and Alhaji Dikirulahi Tiamiyu confirmed that the demolished fence blocked a service road meant for public use. They insisted that no property belonging to the former deputy governor was destroyed and appealed to the government to permanently reopen the access road for the benefit of all residents.