The Oyo State Government has launched a demolition exercise targeting illegal properties on government lands across Ibadan.
The affected areas include Podo Area along Top One Garden, Oluyole Local Government, and Dizengoff, Kolapo Ishola Area.
Commissioner for Lands, Housing, and Urban Development, Mr. Williams Akin Funmilayo, disclosed this during the demolition exercise.
He stated, “The lands are assets of Oyo State Government; encroachment and illegal occupation will not be tolerated.”
The commissioner clarified that those occupying the lands are not rightful owners but identified as land grabbers.
He cited Section 3, Subsection 1 of the Oyo State Real Property Protection Law, 2017, warning offenders.
According to the law, land grabbers face imprisonment terms not exceeding 15 years if found guilty.
Funmilayo revealed that revocation notices were issued in 2012, alongside a national newspaper publication.
READ ALSO: Demolition of Multi-Million Naira Property Sparks Legal Dispute in Onitsha
Additionally, the government gazetted the land the same year for the establishment of a neighbourhood market.
Despite these efforts, some occupants sued the government, but court rulings ultimately favoured the state.
The commissioner stressed the government’s willingness to negotiate with owners holding valid Certificates of Occupancy.
Governor Seyi Makinde reiterated zero tolerance for land grabbing and pledged to protect state-owned assets.
He emphasized the importance of utilizing government lands for projects benefiting the broader citizenry.
Meanwhile, affected occupants have expressed concerns, urging the government to consider alternative resolutions.
The demolition marks a decisive step in Oyo State’s commitment to upholding property rights laws.
