The Forum of Local Government Chairmen in Oyo State has applauded Governor Seyi Makinde for what it described as his compassionate and responsive approach to the concerns raised by residents affected by the ongoing Ibadan Circular Road project.
In a statement released on Wednesday and signed by the forum’s chairman, Hon. Sikiru Sanda, and made available by its Publicity Secretary, Hon. Ibrahim Akintayo, the council bosses commended the governor for personally engaging homeowners, community leaders, and those whose properties fall within the project’s designated setback areas.
According to the forum, the governor’s direct interface with affected residents—many of whom recently staged peaceful demonstrations—reflects his unwavering commitment to citizen welfare and transparent governance.
“Governor Makinde is a man with a listening ear. He promised to be a man of the masses, and he has consistently stood with the people,” the statement said.
“The last few weeks have been tough for homeowners along the Circular Road corridor, especially those whose buildings were marked for demolition, but today the governor has put their worries to rest.”
The chairmen disclosed that the governor assured residents that no home would be demolished without due compensation. They added that Makinde reaffirmed that the 500-metre setback would not be enforced in areas where houses already exist, providing significant relief to affected families.
They also revealed that the governor announced a structural adjustment in management of the project. Henceforth, all matters relating to the Circular Road and its corridor will be handled by the New Town and Cities Development Authority, which will work closely with affected homeowners and demolition victims. This responsibility, they noted, was previously under a different ministry.
Speaking on the significance of the Ibadan Circular Road, Hon. Sanda explained that the project is strategically designed to connect key entry and exit points into Ibadan, thereby enhancing traffic flow and modernising urban infrastructure.
The forum further highlighted the project’s potential to ease congestion within the city centre by diverting heavy-duty vehicles, while also opening up new development corridors. They noted that the road will feature express lanes, bridges, and solar-powered communication infrastructure aimed at boosting safety and efficiency.
On its economic prospects, the chairmen stated that the project is expected to significantly improve property values and stimulate economic activity across surrounding communities.
They concluded by appealing to residents, especially those living in developing outskirts—to support Governor Makinde’s administration in implementing the Ibadan Master Plan. The plan, they said, is designed to drive structured residential, commercial, and industrial growth around the ancient city.
