Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has dismissed allegations of land grabbing, addressing concerns related to the Circular Road project and other state developments.
In a statement issued in Ibadan on Sunday, Makinde described the accusations as stemming from misinformation and misunderstanding.
Refuting the claims, he asserted that those labeling him a land grabber were, in fact, guilty of the practice themselves.
Makinde stated, “Some people are accusing me of being a land grabber, but I am not. It is actually the land grabbers who are calling me one. Several individuals are currently under investigation.” He also emphasized that previous administrations had made commendable efforts in development but noted, “It’s only an idiot who keeps doing the same thing and expects a different result.”
Highlighting the vision for the Circular Road project, the governor said it would be Nigeria’s first motorway, featuring a 32-kilometer stretch from Tech-U to Badeku with only two exit points, designed to facilitate development along its corridor.
Makinde also outlined his administration’s achievements over the past five years, attributing progress to improved budget performance. He noted, “When we realigned the budget in 2019, we achieved 48% performance. By 2020, despite COVID-19, we reached 60%, and now we are over 70%, ensuring stability in project execution and enhancing livability in the state.”
Regarding the controversial Tax Reform Bill, Makinde clarified his position, calling for broader consultations before proceeding. He recounted how the National Economic Council (NEC) unanimously resolved to pause the bill’s progress at the National Assembly until more stakeholders were engaged.
Makinde explained, “It was agreed at the NEC meeting to withdraw the bill for wider consultation. National policies require alignment, and adjustments may be necessary based on stakeholder input.”
Concluding, Makinde addressed misconceptions surrounding his role, stating, “I was tasked with explaining why the bill should be withdrawn for consultation, but some people focused on the messenger rather than the message.”