Makinde presidential ambitions at risk as Ibadan residents protest demolitions, demanding protection of homes and warning the governor against displacing families.
President ambitions may be in jeopardy as angry Ibadan residents protest Governor Seyi Makinde demolitions, warning that he cannot pursue higher political office while destroying homes and displacing citizens.
The protest drew residents from six local government areas, Akinyele, Lagelu, Egbeda, Oluyole, Ona-Ara, and Ido, who expressed frustration at the Oyo State Government’s demolition policies.
Femi Abiola, vice chairman of the protest, spoke to IREPORT247NEWS about his personal ordeal. He revealed that his two houses were demolished, leaving him and his family suddenly homeless.
“I was a landlord, and now my family has nowhere to live,” he lamented. Abiola emphasized that the protest was funded entirely by residents themselves and dismissed claims that opposition parties were sponsoring it.
“We are only demanding fairness and protection of our properties,” he said.
Residents criticized Makinde for inconsistent approaches to property protection. They recalled that he once defended musician Yinka Ayefele during former Governor Ajumobi’s tenure when Ayefele’s house was under threat.
“Back then, people trusted him because he stood up for Ayefele,” a resident said. “Now he has demolished homes and made thousands homeless. This betrayal cannot be overlooked.”
Many protesters highlighted the political implications of the demolitions.
“If you think you can still become President while destroying Ibadan homes, you are joking,” they warned. Citizens who were once supporters now see the demolitions as prioritizing politics over people.
Traditional leaders, known as Mogajis, reportedly share the residents’ concerns but remain largely silent for fear of losing their titles.
According to protesters, this silence has allowed the government’s demolition policies to continue unchecked.
Clarifying misinformation about alleged funding for the protest, Azeez Abass Olaide, secretary representing affected areas, denied that residents received ₦25 million from the Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu.
“The claim is completely false. No funds have been received by any affected resident,” he stated, adding that while the minister’s foundation pledged support, the money has yet to be disbursed.
Residents insist their protest is not against development but against policies that harm citizens.
“We are not against progress. We are against destruction that leaves families homeless,” Abiola said. The demolitions have left children without shelter, families without security, and entire communities in distress.
“Many of us built these homes with our life savings. We are demanding justice, not charity,” he added.
Political analysts note that protests like this could affect Makinde’s political reputation. Ibadan is a key political center in Oyo State, and continued displacement could influence voter sentiment.
Resolving the crisis transparently could protect credibility, while failure to act may alienate supporters further.
The Ibadan residents protest Makinde demolitions highlights the tension between government development policies and citizens’ rights.
Urban planning is necessary, but residents argue it must balance public interest with humane treatment of affected communities. “Our demand is simple: protect our homes and respect our rights,” Olaide stressed.
Throughout the protest, residents reiterated their commitment to peaceful demonstration and legal accountability. They warned that if the government ignores their concerns, further protests may escalate.
“We will not be silenced. We are united in our call for justice,” they declared.
The Ibadan residents protest Makinde demolitions sends a clear message: Governor Makinde must prioritize citizens’ rights, ensure fairness in urban planning, and address grievances transparently.
Ignoring the human cost of demolitions threatens both social stability and political trust.
“If you think you can still become President while destroying homes, you are joking,” the protesters reiterated, emphasizing that political ambitions cannot outweigh respect for the people of Ibadan.
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