Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, has reassured property owners along the Circular Road corridor that his administration will ensure fairness, transparency, and adequate compensation as construction continues on the 110km project, Egalitarian Voice reports.
The governor gave the assurance on Wednesday while meeting affected residents, community leaders, and demolition victims within the designated setback areas.
Makinde stated that his administration remains accountable to the people who elected it, stressing that critical infrastructure projects will not be abandoned for future governments to inherit.
“You installed this government. For over six years, we did not fail you, and we will not fail you now,” he declared. “Many governors stop major projects towards the end of their tenure, but that only transfers problems to the next administration.”
He explained that some sections of the Circular Road run through already developed areas, making compensation unavoidable. He revealed that property owners legitimately affected in completed segments had been duly compensated.
Providing an update, Makinde disclosed that the 32km stretch between the Technical University and the Ibadan–Ife Road at Badeku is nearing completion and should be delivered within the next three months.
Addressing concerns on property marking and setbacks, the governor clarified that the approved limit in built-up areas remains 150 metres to accommodate the planned rapid transfer network, which is expected to operate at speeds of 80–100km/h.
“There is a highway code for setback. Even a single-lane federal highway requires 50 metres,” he said. “So if anyone marks beyond 150 metres here, disregard it.”
To streamline communication, Makinde announced that the New Town and Cities Development Authority (OYNTCDA) will now serve as the sole government interface with affected communities.
“You will set up your team, they will set up theirs, and you will deal directly. No house will be demolished without compensation,” he assured.
Egalitarian Voice reports that Makinde acknowledged residents’ right to protest but urged them to consider the economic activities of others, commending the community for its organised approach.
He also referenced the 2018 setback gazette, stating that although his administration did not issue it, the current government is applying it in a more realistic and humane manner.
“In built-up areas, we won’t go beyond the approved setback. We cannot do 500 metres on both sides in a place like this,” he noted.
The governor urged community representatives to expand their leadership team from six to ten members to ensure wider representation.
“I am not the most perfect human being. Only God is perfect. Where there are mistakes, we are ready to listen,” he said. “We will solve this problem and will not leave it for another administration.”
