The Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, has extended financial assistance to residents whose properties were affected by the ongoing Ibadan Circular Road project initiated by the Oyo State Government.
Adelabu, a 2027 governorship aspirant under the All Progressives Congress (APC), said the intervention was aimed at alleviating the hardship faced by displaced residents.
The demolition exercise has generated widespread public outcry among property owners whose structures were either demolished or marked for demolition within the 500-metre buffer zone on both sides of the 113-kilometre project corridor.
Speaking in Ibadan during an interactive session with the affected residents, Adelabu emphasised that his gesture was purely humanitarian and not politically motivated.
He said: “We are one family in Ibadan. I am a Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, representing Oyo State. This is not about politics; it is about restoring hope and easing the pain of our people.”
The Minister announced a donation of ₦25 million as the first phase of his intervention to help affected residents secure temporary accommodation.
“For this initial phase, I am donating ₦25 million so that some of you can rent temporary apartments. I believe this will provide immediate relief while longer-term solutions are explored.”
Adelabu expressed deep sympathy for those who lost their lives or sustained injuries during the demolition exercise.
“Yes, we all desire development that brings progress to Ibadan and Oyo State. However, it must not come at the expense of human lives and welfare. Every development project should have a human face. Progress that disregards people’s well-being ceases to be development.”
He further cautioned against arbitrary demolitions that displace families and render them homeless.
“Government exists to serve the people, not to inflict pain on them. A road corridor can be established, but it must be done responsibly and with compassion.”
Baale of Asanke Village, Chief Sule Asanke, appealed to the Minister to intervene by engaging Governor Seyi Makinde to halt the demolitions.
“We are deeply hurt that our land has been taken from us, allegedly to be sold to private individuals,” he lamented.
One of the affected residents, Mrs. Modinat, tearfully narrated how her property was demolished and appealed to the Minister to intercede on their behalf.
In response, Adelabu pledged to explore all available channels, both at the federal and state levels to ensure that justice and fairness prevail.
He also promised to engaged Governor Makinde, whom he described as a friend and brother, to seek a balanced and compassionate resolution.
He urged residents to remain law-abiding and peaceful in their protests.
“Do not take the law into your hands. All demonstrations must be peaceful and within the bounds of the law. While government authority is supreme, it must always operate with empathy and respect for human dignity.”
