The Chairman of Ibadan South-West Local Government Area, Hon. Kehinde Akande, has said that adequate notices were served on illegal occupants before the demolition of structures along the Railway–110 Road corridor in Ibadan, Oyo State.
Akande stated this on Wednesday while addressing concerns over the demolition exercise, explaining that the action was part of efforts to clear encroachments on the road reserve and setbacks to pave the way for a new road construction project.
According to him, affected land invaders and illegal occupants were first issued removal notices, which were allowed to lapse, followed by a final reminder granting them an opportunity for voluntary compliance and relocation before the demolition commenced.
“The government duly served notices on all illegal occupants along the Railway–110 Road corridor. These notices expired, and a further reminder was issued as a final opportunity for voluntary removal before enforcement began,” Akande said.
He explained that the clearance was necessary to enable the commencement of road construction aimed at easing traffic congestion along the Aleshinloye, Ring Road and Iyanganku axis, which he described as one of the busiest corridors in the metropolis.
Akande noted that the project would significantly improve traffic flow, reduce daily commuting stress for motorists and residents, and enhance economic activities in the area through improved road connectivity.
He further assured residents that the exercise was carried out in a peaceful and professional manner, stressing that all relevant security agencies were informed and deployed to the site to maintain law and order.
According to the council chairman, security personnel present included officers from the Iyaganku and Eleyele police commands, the Department of State Services, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Operation Burst and the Amotekun Corps.
“The operation was conducted peacefully by the technical team, without any violence or disruption. There were no thugs involved, and no properties belonging to the Nigerian Railway Corporation were removed by the local or state government,” Akande added.
Meanwhile, the Faith and Miracle International Church, led by Senior Prophet G.F. David, has expressed its readiness to partner with the government to ensure proper utilization of the road setback for construction and improved access.
David described the road project as a welcome development, commending the government’s efforts to improve infrastructure and road connectivity in the area.
He said the church was willing to support initiatives that would enhance accessibility, boost development and improve the overall wellbeing of residents within the community.
