NAN-H-146
Demolition
By Akeem Abas
Ibadan, Feb. 21, 2017 (NAN) The Oyo State Government has assured property owners on the Oke Adu- Agodi-Gate-Idi Ape-Iwo Road Interchange of professionalism as the dualisation project on the road begins.
Mr Wasiu Dauda, the State Commissioner for Works and Transport, gave the assurance at a stakeholders meeting held with the owners of affected structures.
Dauda assured the owners that the contractor would ensure professionalism in the demolition exercise, adding that the meeting was convened to deliberate on the smooth operation of the project.
The commissioner said the road project was in fulfilment of the second term electioneering promises of the Abiola Ajimobi administration.
“The governor had during the second term campaign promised that major link roads within Ibadan metropolis and major towns in Oyo state will be expanded, reconstructed and rehabilitated.
“This was with a view to decongesting traffic and enhancing economic and commercial growth in the state,” he said.
Dauda, who said that the governor was building a legacy, noted that road infrastructure was one of the indices to attract investors and boost the economy of the state.
The commissioner appealed to owners of properties and structures not to allow individual benefits to override the general interest of the people.
Dauda said that government was not interested in inflicting discomfort on the people or their businesses but to promote development.
Mr Oyesola Oyedele, the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, commended owners of the properties for their understanding and cooperation.
Oyedele pointed out that the expansion of the road would bring enormous benefits to residents, considering the status of the area as a commercial centre and entry point into the city.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that owners of the properties and structures called for prompt payment of compensation.
The owners also advised the contractor not to demolish structures indiscriminately while pledging their support to the success of the road project. (NAN)
TAA/OJO
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(Edited by Mufutau Ojo)