Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State disbursed N300 million on Monday to those whose properties were affected by the urban renewal policy of his administration.
The beneficiaries were those whose buildings would be demolished in the Atikankan area of the Ado Ekiti metropolis, a popular slum within the capital city, for the construction of the proposed ultra-modern central business district and modern park in the renowned shanty area.
This gesture came barely three weeks after millions of naira were paid as compensation to those whose buildings and crops were demolished for the construction of a 1.2-kilometre-long flyover between the Okeyinmi, Ijigbo and Ajilosun areas of Ado Ekiti metropolis and Ekiti State Ring Road Phase 1.
Distributing the cheques at an event held at the Pavilion in the Fajuyi area of Ado Ekiti, Oyebanji, represented by Deputy Governor Monisade Afuye, pledged that his government won’t subject property owners to undue bottlenecks before having their compensation paid.
The governor stated that the properties were acquired as part of the determination to rid Ekiti of slums and shanties, as represented by the Atikankan area. He said Atikankan has been a notorious hideout for criminals perpetrating evils and represented a dirty and shanty view, constituting a threat to the people because of its high proclivity for the breakout of communicable diseases.
“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 an impact and improve the living standards of the people, as they are capable of generating employment for the youth.
“Let me reiterate that none of the developmental projects where structures, crops or property are affected will be demolished without payment of full compensation to the beneficiaries of such property. My administration is committed to prompt payment of compensation, no matter how small it might be, so that the little amount paid will not be consumed by the inflation rate.
“Although the amount might be meagre compared with the cost of erecting new structures, I want you to bear with us as this is part of the collective sacrifices we have to make to enjoy the prosperity of industrial and infrastructural development in our dear state,” he said.
Speaking earlier, the Head of Service, Sunday Komolafe, described the proposed Central Business District and Park Legacy projects as facilities that would add aesthetic value to Ado Ekiti and upscale the state’s economic prosperity.
Komolafe added 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 the public interest.
Urban renewal: Ekiti Govt pays N300m compensation to property owners