Oyo Govt Begins Demolition of Structures on Road Reserves

The Oyo State Government has commenced the demolition of structures encroaching on road reserves, following the expiration of an eviction notice earlier served on Monday, 13th October, 2025.

The 14-day eviction notice, which expired on Monday, 27th October, 2025, was followed by a reminder last week—serving as a final grace period for the affected traders to vacate the road setbacks and walkways.

Following the expiration of the grace period, the Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority (OYRLEA), in collaboration with officials from the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, the Oyo State Road Transport Management Authority (OYRTMA), Environmental Task Force, as well as the Nigeria Police, Amotekun Corps, and other State Security Operatives, on Monday began the demolition of illegal structures on the designated routes.

The Joint Enforcement Team, led by DCP Francis Ojomo (Rtd.) and the Chief of Staff to the OYRLEA Chairperson, Mrs. Iyabo Akinbode, commenced the demolition and evacuation exercise from Airport Junction, through Alakia–Adegbayi, towards Old Ife Road, clearing iron containers, mobile kiosks, goods, and other illegal structures obstructing the right of way.

Commenting on the exercise, the Chairperson of OYRLEA, Honourable Justice Aderonke Adekemi Aderemi (Rtd.), reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to maintaining a sane, clean, and safe environment across the State.

Justice Aderemi emphasized the importance of intensified enforcement to uphold the Rule of Law, stating that “our environment must be welcoming and safe for investors. This has always been the utmost desire of our people-oriented Governor, His Excellency, Engr. Seyi Makinde, on whose mandate we operate.”

She further noted that “the evacuation of illegal structures and containers on road setbacks and walkways along these routes—particularly ahead of the commissioning of the International Airport—is essential. This follows the earlier eviction notices and the continuous sensitization through radio jingles and other media platforms.”

Acting on the directive of the State Government, roadside traders and those operating in containers along Airport Road, Old Ife Road, and Onipepeye areas of Ibadan have been urged to comply fully, as the grace period for relocation has elapsed.

OYRLEA reiterated that any trader found violating the directive by returning to the cleared setbacks or walkways will be prosecuted. The Authority warned that such violations will be met with zero tolerance, assuring the public of strict enforcement of the State’s environmental laws.

Traders were therefore urged to regard the ongoing enforcement as a final opportunity to comply with government directives.

E-signed:

Prince Dotun Oyelade,

Commissioner for Information,

Oyo State.

November 4, 2025.