OYO GOVT RAZES ILLEGAL STRUCTURES ON ROAD RESERVES
Oyo State Government, through the Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority (OYRLEA), has begun the demolition of illegal structures encroaching on road reserves and setbacks across Ibadan.
The decisive action, which commenced on Monday, followed the final expiration of eviction notices served to traders and businesses operating illegally along major routes.
Affected occupants had initially been served a 14-day eviction notice on Monday, October 13, 2025, which expired on October 27, 2025. A subsequent reminder was issued last week, offering a final opportunity for voluntary compliance and relocation.
With the grace period exhausted, a Joint Enforcement Team swung into action. This team comprised officials from OYRLEA, the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, the Oyo State Road Transport Management Authority (OYRTMA), the Environmental Task Force, and personnel from the Nigeria Police, Amotekun Corps, and other State Security Operatives.
The enforcement exercise, which saw the clearing of iron containers, mobile kiosks, goods, and other structures, kicked off from Airport Junction, proceeding through the Alakia–Adegbayi axis and towards Old Ife Road.
The Joint Enforcement Team was led by DCP Francis Ojomo (Rtd.) and the Chief of Staff to the OYRLEA Chairperson, Mrs. Iyabo Akinbode.
Commenting on the operation, the Chairperson of OYRLEA, Honourable Justice Aderonke Adekemi Aderemi (Rtd.), reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to Governor Seyi Makinde’s mandate of creating a sane, safe, and clean environment in the state.
“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,” Justice Aderemi stated.
She further stressed the urgency of the evacuation, particularly along the Airport Road corridor, which is critical ahead of the commissioning of the International Airport. She confirmed that the enforcement followed extensive sensitisation through eviction notices and continuous radio jingles.
Acting on the State Government’s directive, OYRLEA has reiterated a zero-tolerance stance against any future violation. Traders operating along Airport Road, Old Ife Road, and Onipepeye have been warned that this ongoing enforcement serves as the final chance to comply.
OYRLEA stated that any individual or business found returning to the cleared setbacks or walkways will be arrested and prosecuted under the State’s environmental laws. The Authority assured the public of the strict enforcement of all extant laws to maintain order and public safety.
