Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has assured residents displaced by the ongoing 110km Senator Rashidi Ladoja Circular Road Project that his administration will prioritise fairness and compassion as development progresses. He announced that engagements with affected communities will begin on Wednesday.
Makinde gave the assurance on Monday while presenting the 2026 budget to the Oyo State House of Assembly at the House of Chiefs Secretariat, Ibadan.
The Newsmen reports that residents impacted by the project have held several protests across the state capital in recent months, slowing the project’s pace.
Reiterating his commitment to people-centred governance, Makinde said he would personally visit the project site to listen to residents’ concerns and consider all options, including adequate compensation and possible resettlement.
He explained that the current administration had not carried out new land acquisitions for the project, revealing that the previous government had already acquired 500 metres of land on each side of the road, as published in a national daily in November 2018.
“When I took up this job, I knew situations like this would arise. Nobody begged me to become governor; I offered myself to serve this state,” Makinde said.
“We remain committed to development that is fair, humane, and inclusive. I will fulfil my promise to visit affected communities, listen to them, and explore all solutions, including resettlement and compensation.”
Makinde will begin his visit at Ologuneru on Wednesday.
The governor also cautioned against politicising the project, stressing that governance continuity goes beyond individual officeholders.
“In about 18 months, I’ll be out of here. I’ve already started preparing for transition. In 2027, others will take over,” he said. “If some believe attacking Makinde will win them votes, the people of this state know better. They will choose their leaders.”
Makinde highlighted his administration’s efforts to build strong institutions rather than strongmen, citing reforms such as the Oyo State Anti-Corruption Agency (OYACA) and the Rule of Law Enforcement Authority.
“Our legacy will not be measured only by infrastructure but by the systems that sustain progress,” he said.
The governor emphasised that the Circular Road is part of a broader plan to boost industrial growth, support commercial solid mineral exploration, and transition Oyo State from a consumption-based economy to a productive one.
“We know Oyo State can stand on its own as a true pacesetter,” Makinde said. “We have not failed you in over six years, and we won’t fail you now. Together, we will continue to grow, innovate, and prosper.”
