Oyo Govt. demolishes illegal structures at Olunloyo GRA
Oyo State Government demolished several structures at Omololu Olunloyo GRA, Ring Road, Adeoyo, Ibadan, on Thursday due to the illegal acquisition of land, unauthorized entry into the GRA, and non-compliance with physical planning regulations by the occupants.
Mr. Rotimi Babalola, Director of Press & Public Relations at the Ministry of Information, Culture, and Tourism, released a statement regarding the incident.
The demolition also extended to Aquatech College Of Agriculture And Technology, Ibadan, as the owner was found to be leasing government lands without approval.
Mrs. Mofoluke Adebiyi, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Land, Housing, and Urban Development, led the team and emphasized the need to restore order in land use management, urban planning, and development in Oyo State.
Mrs. Adebiyi revealed that the government of the western region originally acquired the land in question for the construction of Adeoyo Hospital on Ring Road and other purposes.
She further noted that the traditional landowners were duly compensated at that time. Despite multiple notices issued by the Bureau of Physical Planning over the years, the affected occupants failed to comply with the directives.
In her statement, Mrs. Adebiyi stated, “Historically, this place was acquired by the government of the western region for Adeoyo State Hospital, and part of it is designated as GRA. The traditional landowners were duly compensated.”
She continued, “Successive administrations have issued warnings, but people disregarded them, assuming the government was not serious. Today, we decided to take action.”
Furthermore, Mrs. Adebiyi expressed concern about individuals engaging in agriculture within the GRA, stating that it is not permitted.
She explained that temporary structures were being used to house birds and animals, which was a violation of the regulations. The occupants were given 24 hours to vacate the premises and relocate the animals, as living creatures are not allowed in such areas.
To prevent fraudulent transactions, she advised those interested in purchasing land within GRAs to approach the government instead of dealing with individuals.
She emphasized, “If a place is designated as a GRA, it is crucial to visit the assigned government offices to make inquiries, as the government is the rightful owner.”
She concluded by urging those claiming to have approvals for their structures to visit the Ministry of Lands, Housing, and Urban Development for verification.
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