A total sum of fifty-two million, fifty-three thousand, seven hundred and eleven naira (N52,053,711) has been disbursed by the Oyo State government, to compensate the owners of the land acquired by the previous administration, for developmental projects in Ibadan.
Forty-eight million, eight hundred and eighty-eight thousand and forty-five naira was disbursed for 16.3 hectares of land at Sogunro axis in Akinyele Local Government acquired for State Model Schools, and three million, one hundred and sixty-five thousand, sixty-six naira for 3.028 hectares of land at Lagos-Ibadan Express Way, for Gas Plant Project.
This was made known by the Commissioner for Lands, Housing and Urban Development, Mr Olusegun Olayiwola while he presented the cheques to the land owners.
Mr Olayiwola stated that the purpose of the payment, though not procured by the present administration, is a demonstration of concern for the land owners as the government of the day believes that government is continuum.
He also hinted that the government has partnered with Shell Nigeria Gas Limited for the establishment of Gas Industrial distribution plant on the 3.028 hectares of land at the Lagos-Ibadan Express Way.
Similarly, the commissioner took time to appreciate the beneficiaries for their patience and tolerance, and also reaffirms the government’s commitment to other instances of compensation that have not been attended to.
In his words, “Today’s event further shows the good gesture of Governor ‘Seyi Makinde . The lands were acquired by the previous government but the governor decided to pay since government is continuum.
“The current expenditures exceeded that of the previous expenses, even the salaries of the workforce but payment were made to ensure concerned individuals are not short changed.
Meanwhile, one of the beneficiaries, Mr Ojedokun Musibau, on behalf of other beneficiaries lauded the state government for fulfilling its promise and not putting them to shame.