Gov. Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State has paid N300 million as compensation to property owners affected by the state government’s urban renewal programme.
Oyebanji, represented by his deputy, Mrs Monisade Afuye, distributed the cheques to the beneficiaries in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital, on Monday, May 20, 2024.
The governor noted that the disbursement followed his government’s desire not to subject property owners to undue bottleneck before been compensated.
“The beneficiaries are property owners at Atikankan area of Ado-Ekiti, a slum within the capital city where an Ultra-Modern Central Business District and Modern Park will be constructed,’’ he said.
The governor said though the property were acquired in determination to rid Ekiti of slums and shanties, the payment of compensation is to the original landowners.
“One of the cardinal objectives of my administration is transformation of urban slums into a befitting central hub that will boost economic opportunities, and this spurred us to acquire Atikankan and Igbehin area.
“The proposed project will be one of the major trading hubs in the state where government, private individuals, business and corporate organisations can buy and sell goods and services in a decent and more coordinated manner.
“The projects will have impact and improve the living standards of the people as it is capable of generating employments for the youths.
“Let me reiterate that none of the developmental projects, well-structured crops and property in the affected area will be demolished without payment or full compensation to the beneficiaries of such property,’’ he said.
Earlier, the Head of Service, Mr Sunday Komolafe, described the proposed Central Business District and Park legacy projects as facilities that would add aesthetic values to Ado-Ekiti and upscale the state economically.
Komolafe said that the government shared the pains of those who lost their property and businesses to the construction of the facilities but clarified that the urban renewal policy was initiated in public interest.
By Funmilayo Okunade
