State Govt to Ibadan Protesters: Choose Dialogue Over Tension on Circular Road Project

The Oyo State Mobilisation Agency for Socio-Economic Development has called on residents protesting along the Rashidi Ladoja Circular Road corridor to prioritise dialogue as tensions rise over the state government’s proposed road setback plan.

The appeal was made on Tuesday by the agency’s Director-General, Dr. Morohunkola Thomas, following a week-long protest across Ibadan. The residents are demanding that the government reverse its decision to enforce a 500-metre setback on both sides of the road, insisting instead that the buffer zone should not exceed 75 metres.

Dr. Thomas acknowledged the hardship experienced by those affected by ongoing demolitions but stressed that significant decisions are sometimes necessary to achieve meaningful development. He urged the protesters to remain calm and consider the long-term benefits of the project.

According to him, the Circular Road is a transformative infrastructure initiative designed to reduce traffic congestion, create new economic opportunities, improve transportation, and enhance the overall quality of life in the state. He cautioned residents against allowing political actors to exploit the situation and encouraged them to engage constructively with the government for a mutually beneficial resolution.