From Taiwo Oluwadare, Ibadan
The Oyo State Ministry of Public Works and Transport has clarified the demolition of structures along the Ojoo-Akinyele Interchange, stating it aligns with Federal Ministry of Works directives on the Right of Way (ROW) for federal roads.
In a statement by Commissioner Professor Dahud Kehinde Shangodoyin, the Ministry noted that the interchange, part of the Old Oyo Road, falls within the federal ROW, defined as 45.72 metres on either side of a road’s centreline under the Federal Highway Act, Cap 135.
The ministry refuted claims of independent action, noting that Oyo State only received federal approval to construct the interchange, with ownership and ROW enforcement remaining under federal jurisdiction.
“The Federal Ministry of Works has consistently raised concerns over unauthorized development within the ROW,” the statement read, citing a THISDAY newspaper notice from March 13, 2020 warning against such structures.
No structures are permitted within the ROW without approval from the Minister of Works, who oversees all federal highways. The ministry added that Oyo State sought presidential approval before reconstructing the Ojoo–Moniya–Akinyele axis. It directed inquiries to the Federal Controller of Works at Oyo State’s Federal Field Headquarters.
The statement follows protests by Olope Metta village residents, who claim the demolitions, initiated on April 14, threaten ancestral homes, with markings exceeding prior boundaries. The ministry maintained compliance with federal regulations despite local concerns.