Oyo Government begins demolition of abandoned hotel in Ibadan
The Oyo State Government has commenced the demolition of an abandoned building formerly known as De Castle Inn, located in the Total Garden area along the Mokola–Agodi Gate Road in Ibadan, REPUBLICAN NIGERIA reports.
The structure, which had reportedly been left unused for several years, was brought down over the weekend as part of the state’s efforts to rid the capital of abandoned buildings believed to be serving as hideouts for criminal activities.
Authorities had earlier issued warnings to property owners across the state to either rehabilitate or put their abandoned structures to meaningful use. The Commissioner for Lands, Housing, Survey and Urban Development, Mr. William Akin-Funmilayo, reiterated this stance in a statement issued in February, warning that the government would not hesitate to take over any such buildings deemed a threat to public safety.
Prior to the demolition, items within the premises had been cleared, and security operatives were deployed to maintain order and forestall any disruptions during the process.
As of the time of this report, heavy machinery, including bulldozers, were still on-site continuing the demolition exercise.
