Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has assured opposition political parties in the state of equal access to government-owned facilities for their political activities, provided they comply with the established requirements for their use.
Makinde gave the assurance in response to concerns surrounding the proposed use of Mapo Hall, Ibadan, by the All Progressives Congress (APC) for its presidential campaign.
The governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to fairness, inclusiveness and democratic principles, stressing that no political party should be discriminated against in accessing public facilities.
According to a statement on Tuesday by the governor’s Special Adviser on Media, Dr Sulaimon Olanrewaju, Makinde maintained that public assets belonged to the people of Oyo State and should be administered transparently, equitably and without partisan considerations.
The governor said his administration was committed to providing a level playing field for all political stakeholders, regardless of their party affiliations.
He noted that democracy thrived when political parties were given equal opportunities to engage with the electorate within the framework of the law.
Makinde, however, emphasised that access to government-owned facilities remained subject to established procedures and regulations designed to ensure their proper use, maintenance and the preservation of public order.
He said any political party or organisation that fulfilled the stipulated conditions should not face discrimination or unjust restrictions in accessing such facilities.
The governor also urged political actors to conduct their activities peacefully and responsibly, while calling on relevant authorities to handle applications and other administrative processes relating to the use of public facilities professionally, fairly and without bias.
The statement added that the Oyo State Government remained committed to promoting political tolerance, protecting democratic freedoms and ensuring an environment where legitimate political interests could operate freely in accordance with the law.