Residents affected by the Ibadan Circular Road project in Oyo State have called on the state government to adhere strictly to the originally gazetted 75-metre corridor and ensure adequate compensation for all impacted property owners.
The demand was made during a protest held in Ibadan, where demonstrators expressed concern over plans to expand the corridor to 500 metres on both sides of the road.
The protest caused minor traffic disruption at Kukumada along the Ibadan-Ife Expressway, as residents barricaded parts of the road while chanting solidarity songs and urging the government to halt the proposed expansion.
Speaking at a press conference shortly after the demonstration, the protesters insisted that the government must respect the acquisition framework established in 2006. They noted that the 75-metre corridor was clearly defined and gazetted during the administration of a former governor, and any deviation from it would unjustly affect more property owners.
Some of the demonstrators, including Olaide Abass and Ayomide Ola, voiced their frustration over what they described as a lack of transparency and consistency in the project’s implementation.
Although the state government has initiated compensation for affected residents, the protesters expressed dissatisfaction with the pace of payments. They claimed that only about 10 percent of over 2,000 affected individuals have received compensation so far.
They also raised concerns about the uncertainty surrounding properties located within the expanded corridor, despite assurances from the government that densely populated areas would be integrated into the project.
The residents emphasized the need for fairness, urging the government to prioritize dialogue and uphold previously agreed terms to prevent further hardship.
Despite the tensions, the group expressed optimism that constructive engagement between stakeholders would lead to a resolution that balances infrastructure development with the rights and welfare of affected communities.