The Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has appealed to protesters to exercise their right to protest peacefully without destroying government properties.
Speaking at the Grand finale Ibadan Cultural Festival 2024, an event organised by the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) and held at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium in Ibadan, Governor Makinde acknowledged the right to protest but emphasized the importance of doing so without causing damage.
“In Oyo State, we have achieved progress using the state’s money, not my father’s,” he said. “So, when protesting, please do so peacefully; don’t destroy government properties. This way, we won’t need to divert resources meant for alleviating hunger to repair damaged government properties.”
Governor Makinde also highlighted his administration’s progress, thanking God for the achievements so far. He addressed requests made by the Chief Imam’s representative, including the upgrade of the Ibadan Airport, which has received approval from Abuja. He announced that a team will be inaugurated next Tuesday to oversee the upgrade, with groundbreaking expected within six weeks.
“A new, internationally-standard airport will be ready for Ibadan and Oyo State within 18 months,” he promised.
Governor Makinde expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the airport upgrade and granting Oyo State total control of Obafemi Awolowo Stadium. He concluded by wishing the people of Ibadan many more years of celebration and unity.