The Oyo State Government has announced that it will begin enforcement against structures built without proper government approval, as part of a renewed push to safeguard urban planning, public safety, and responsible land use.
Speaking at a press conference at the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development in Ibadan on Thursday, the Commissioner, Mr. Akin-Funmilayo William, painted a picture of frustration with unauthorized constructions across the state, some of which involve federal agencies.
“These buildings were erected without any state approval, some dangerously close to rail lines or in areas meant for public use.
“Urban planning and physical development are the responsibility of the state. When people, whether private citizens or federal agencies ignore that, we have no choice but to act,” William said.
He cited the Federal Secretariat in Ikolaba, Ibadan, where more than fifty houses have been illegally constructed within a government complex originally intended as an administrative hub.
“People are cooking, selling food, living inside a government secretariat. None of these structures has state approval. It is shameful,” he lamented.
The commissioner also drew attention to the Nigerian Railway Corporation’s land at Dugbe, where commercial buildings have been erected dangerously close to the rail tracks.
“The railway is for trains, not shopping complexes. When trains start moving, the vibrations can travel up to forty meters. How safe are those buildings?” he asked.
Mr. William emphasized that enforcement action had already begun. Some buildings have been marked for inspection and potential demolition if they continue to flout regulations.
He also reiterated that the state has a pending court case against several federal agencies that illegally sold government quarters in Ibadan.
“These agencies are tenants of Oyo State, and the state is the landlord. We have been generous, offering temporary accommodation while they develop their own facilities.
“But when they start selling our properties or abandoning land, it’s unacceptable. The handshake has gone too far. Either we step back, or we resist. We will resist,” he declared.
Beyond federal encroachments, the commissioner stressed that the state government is equally committed to enforcing regulations for private developers.
“Anyone constructing without a valid building permit will face the consequences. There cannot be two drivers in one bus. Land in Oyo belongs to the people, held in trust by the governor. Misuse or neglect cannot be tolerated.”
William also reassured investors and the general public that the government remains committed to transparency and responsible land administration.
“The era of impunity is over. We will protect our resources, ensure public safety, and put every inch of land to the best possible use for our people,” he concluded.