Post by Ibadan Watch (@Ibadanwatch)
Protest Looms as Saki Residents Oppose Proposed Veterinary Land Development.
Residents, community leaders and stakeholders in Saki, Oyo State, have rejected the state government's reported plan to allocate the community's Veterinary land for the proposed Oke-Ogun Smart City project, describing the move as an attempt to dispossess the people of a valuable public asset.
The development has sparked growing tension, with many warning that any effort to proceed without community consent could trigger widespread protests.
The opposition intensified after local leaders directed contractors handling activities on the disputed land to immediately suspend work and remove all equipment from the site.
They also resolved that farmers currently cultivating the land should continue their farming activities until all issues surrounding the ownership and proposed development are fully resolved.
Stakeholders said the decision was necessary to preserve peace and maintain the status quo while discussions continue. They insisted that the Veterinary land belongs to the people of Saki and should not be transferred to private developers without broad consultation and transparency.
Several residents took to social media to express their dissatisfaction with the proposed project. Some described it as a land-grabbing scheme disguised as development, while others questioned the long-term benefits of the proposed Oke-Ogun Smart City initiative.
One resident argued that the land was originally designated for veterinary and agricultural purposes and should continue to serve that function rather than being converted for commercial development. Others referenced previous government projects, including the Koleosho GRA and Fasola Farm, as examples of developments they believe failed to deliver the promised benefits.
Community members also criticised political office holders from the area, accusing them of failing to protect the interests of Saki. Some warned that history would judge leaders who support the transfer of community assets without adequate public engagement.
Residents further alleged that the state government had previously disposed of several legacy public assets, including Agodi Gardens, Trans Amusement Park, BCOS and Fasola Farms, claims that have fuelled suspicion over the proposed Smart City project. The government has not publicly responded to those allegations.
The protesters maintained that the Veterinary land remains a vital community asset and urged the Oyo State Government to halt any further action until meaningful consultations are held with stakeholders.
They also vowed to withhold support for Governor Seyi Makinde and candidates of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) in the 2027 elections unless firm commitments are made to protect the land and address the community's concerns.
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