The Oyo State government has provided justification for the demolition of properties linked to alleged backers of the recent invasion of the State Secretariat on Saturday.
Speaking on Thursday, Commissioner for Lands, Housing, and Urban Development William Akin-Funmilayo explained that the demolition was carried out in accordance with court orders.
Reports from NewsNow highlighted that the state government razed the structures belonging to Onitiri-Abiola, who is suspected to have played a role in the invasion.
In a statement released to NewsNow, Akin-Funmilayo disclosed that two buildings tied to the sponsors of the attack in the Shagari area, Toye Oyesola Street, Boluwaji, and Zone 4, Irorun Oluwa community in Oluyole Local Government area, Ibadan, have been demolished by the government.
He also mentioned that a facility allegedly used by illicit miners to process and package lithium within the state was demolished.
The commissioner emphasized that Governor Engineer Seyi Makinde will persist in prioritizing the safety of lives and properties in the state.
“The demolition took place two days ago following an Oyo State High Court directive. The court mandated the demolition of the structures,” he said.
“Regarding the order, it is related to the Yoruba Nation agitators as the building belonged to them, as stated in the court order. The belief was that the building harbored dangerous weapons and firearms.
“The activities conducted there posed a threat to peace and order in Oyo State.
“I encourage residents in these areas to remain assured, as the government is committed to securing lives and properties. If any threat arises, prompt action will be taken by the government.
“I urge residents in these areas to report any suspicious activities to the authorities. As His Excellency Engr Seyi Makinde always emphasizes, ‘if you see something, say something’.
“Security should be a collective concern in society. The government can only act based on the information it receives from the public.
“Again, I urge everyone, if there is anything endangering lives or peaceful coexistence, notify the government to safeguard lives and properties.”
Furthermore, the state government also demolished a facility used by suspected illegal miners for lithium processing and packaging outside the state.
“The facility, situated in Idi Ayunre, Oluyole Local Government area of the state, was brought down following a court order,” Akin-Funmilayo added.