Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, is advocating for the construction of a rail system alongside the Circular Road to enhance the transportation of goods and materials in Ibadanland’s industrial areas. This proposal, which could significantly transform Ibadan’s transportation infrastructure, involves building a rail system parallel to the Circular Road. This visionary project, championed by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, promises to revolutionise the movement of goods and people, unlocking the socio-economic potential of Ibadan and Oyo State.
The monarch endorsed the project during a recent courtesy call on him by Governor Seyi Makinde’s Circular Road Stakeholders Engagement Committee at his Oke Aremo Palace in Ibadan, highlighting its importance for the growth and development of Ibadanland.
The Circular Road Stakeholders Engagement Committee faces a daunting task: addressing the concerns of those opposing the 110km road infrastructure corridor. Driving progress and protecting citizens’ rights is a delicate balance. The Committee must exercise caution in hearing protesters’ voices and addressing their grievances. Protests often stem from concerns about inadequate compensation, displacement and a lack of transparency. The Committee’s role is crucial in bridging the gap between government plans and community concerns. By engaging with protesters and explaining the project’s benefits, they can build trust and identify mutually beneficial solutions.
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Olubadan Ladoja strongly advised that sustainability is a crucial aspect of the Circular Road project. Advising the state government to install weighbridges, he believes the facilities will ensure the road’s longevity and protect the investment. Weighbridges are more than just infrastructure; they are a safeguard against overloading, which ravages roads and shortens their lifespan. By enforcing weight limits, the government can prevent premature deterioration, reduce maintenance costs and guarantee a smoother ride for years to come. This pragmatic advice showcases Olubadan Ladoja’s forward-thinking approach, prioritising the project’s sustainability over short-term gains. The state government would do well to heed his counsel, demonstrating its commitment to responsible governance and Ibadanland’s future.
In a display of statesmanship and foresight, the Olubadan Ladoja offered a blueprint for resolving the standoff over the Circular Road project. Recounting his own administration’s efforts in acquiring land for the project, he emphasised the need for a win-win solution to address current grievances. A win-win solution means recognising the rights of landowners while advancing Ibadanland’s development. It requires transparency, adequate compensation and inclusivity. The Olubadan’s call for a win-win solution sets the tone for constructive dialogue. The government must prioritise transparency, fairness and prompt compensation for affected property owners. We must deter land speculators and safeguard the interests of citizens. The Committee’s success hinges on its ability to balance competing interests, ensuring the project uplifts Ibadan’s people and economy. With empathy, dialogue and transparency, this challenge can become an opportunity for inclusive development.
Oba Ladoja’s experience as Oyo State Governor gives weight to his counsel. Oba Ladoja is aware of the challenges after acquiring 150 metres of land (75m on the right and 75m on the left) for the project and compensating the owners. The extension to 500 metres by the previous administration sparked protests, but the monarch’s solution-focused approach urges Governor Makinde to prioritise dialogue and fairness.
Stakeholders’ enthusiasm for the rail system is palpable, and their argument for accommodating it within the existing 150m corridor is compelling. According to them, the proposal to accommodate the rail system within the existing 150-metre corridor is a pragmatic solution. With the railway width and setback requiring minimal space (typically 8 m), it is feasible to fit the rail system without encroaching further on private lands. The math adds up: 32m for the road, plus 10m for the railway and setback, leaves ample space within the original 150m corridor (75m left and right). This approach can mitigate conflicts and prevent another crisis. The focus should be on delivering a project that benefits Ibadan, balancing development with citizens’ welfare. If stakeholders agree, this compromise can pave the way for a smoother implementation process. It is about finding that sweet spot between progress and people’s interests.
Oba Ladoja’s pragmatic approach to the Circular Road project resonates, acknowledging its undeniable potential for the socio-economic development of Ibadan and Oyo State. However, he rightly emphasises that this progress must not come at the cost of vulnerable landowners, urging adequate and prompt compensation that reflects current economic realities. Oba Ladoja’s warning about land speculators along the Circular Road axis is a timely alert, suggesting that there must be vigilance among OYNTCDA and relevant MDAs to protect citizens from exploitation. His leadership demonstrates the value of balancing development with empathy and fairness.
The Chairman of the Circular Road Stakeholders Engagement Committee, Engr. Abduljelyl Adekunle Karheem, aptly praised Oba Ladoja for his visionary role in initiating land acquisition for the project. This collaboration between traditional and government stakeholders is crucial for Ibadanland’s growth.
Governor Makinde now holds the responsibility! Will he use this chance to build consensus and make the Circular Road a people-centric progress story? Heeding Oba Ladoja’s counsel on transparency, fairness and welfare for affected citizens can turn this project into a win-win for Ibadanland. Let’s see how he plays it.
Tunji Oladejo, mnipr, JP, who writes from the University of Ibadan, is the Chairman of The Progressive Forum, Ibadan (TPFI) via oladejo65@gmail.com. 08077284442
