The Ibadan Circular Road Affected Residents Association (ICARA), led by Chairman, Comrade Adebayo Ojo, and Secretary, Mrs. Funmi Ajibade, has condemned the Oyo State Government’s handling of the demolition exercise along the Ibadan Circular Road.
In a statement released yesterday, ICARA described the government’s action as “insensitive and unjust.” The group noted that the demolition exercise, which was carried out without adequate warning or compensation, has left many families homeless and destitute.
ICARA’s position comes on the heels of a protest by residents of Ibadan over the government’s plan to acquire more land for the project. The protesters, who blocked major roads in the city, including Iwo Road and the entrance to Agodi Government Secretariat, demanded that the government maintain the initial 150 meters marked for the project during the administration of former Governor Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja.
“We are shocked and disappointed by the government’s actions,” Comrade Adebayo Ojo said. “The government should prioritize the welfare of its citizens over and above any development project. We urge the government to reconsider its approach and engage with the affected residents to find a solution that will benefit everyone.”
ICARA has also appealed to the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Sen Abdulrashidi Adewolu Akanmu Ladoja, to intervene in the matter. “We are confident that His Majesty will use his good office to help us resolve this matter amicably,” the group said.
Meanwhile, ICARA has commended the Minister of Power and APC gubernatorial aspirant in Oyo State, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, for his gesture of ₦25 million to the affected residents. “We are grateful to Chief Adelabu for his kindness and generosity,” Mrs. Funmi Ajibade said. “His intervention has brought some relief to our members who are struggling to cope with the situation.”
ICARA has also appealed to Chief Dotun Sanusi, the Chief Executive Officer of Ilaji Hotel & Sports Resort, and Ajia Olubadan of Ibadanland, to use his good office to help resolve the matter.
The group urged the government to approach the issue with caution and empathy, while taking into account the plight of affected residents. “The government should not make us cry because the government is for the people,” Comrade Ojo said. “We are practicing democracy, and the government should listen to the people’s cry.”
ICARA has vowed to continue protesting peacefully until its demands are met. The group has also called on well-meaning Nigerians to support their cause and join them in their quest for justice.
As the matter continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the government will respond to the protesters’ demands. One thing is certain, however – the affected residents will not give up until their rights are restored and their grievances are addressed.
