Table of Contents
Oyo State Housing Corporation Launches Initiative to Revitalize Owode Housing Estate Phase II Amid Rising Security Concerns
Urgent Call for Development of Allotted Plots to Enhance Safety
On Friday, the Oyo State Housing Corporation undertook an investigative visit to Owode Housing Estate Phase II, located in Apata, Ibadan. The Corporation urged landowners who have yet to develop their allocated plots to commence construction promptly to avoid forfeiture of their lands.
This action follows escalating complaints from residents about increasing insecurity and frequent criminal activities, with the estate’s extensive undeveloped forested areas serving as hideouts for criminals.
Residents’ Plea Highlights Growing Insecurity
Residents of Owode Estate Phase II had previously issued a distress signal to the Housing Corporation, highlighting the surge in crime within the estate. They emphasized that the dense, undeveloped portions of the estate have become safe havens for criminals, causing anxiety among the few residents who have developed their plots, many of whom report sleepless nights due to fear.
Historical Context and Current Development Status
Hon. Demola Omotosho, Chairman of the Oyo State Housing Corporation, revealed during a media tour that although the estate was established nearly five decades ago, only about 20% of the land has been developed. He stressed that the Corporation’s fact-finding mission was prompted by residents’ reports of burglary, sexual assault, and violent attacks.
Recent Incidents Spark Renewed Protests
Omotosho recounted a recent violent attack on a 76-year-old man, which intensified residents’ demands for action. The undeveloped plots, left unattended by some allottees, have become breeding grounds for criminal activities, putting law-abiding residents at risk.
Vast Undeveloped Land Fuels Security Challenges
Despite the estate’s establishment in the 1970s, nearly 1,000 hectares remain undeveloped. To address this, the state government is exploring a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model aimed at transforming Owode Phase II into a secure and vibrant residential community.
Planned Security and Infrastructure Enhancements
Omotosho assured residents that by June 2026, significant improvements would be implemented, including the construction of a dedicated Police Post, establishment of an Amotekun security base, and installation of solar-powered streetlights throughout the estate. Similar development efforts are underway in Ajoda New Town, where 1,000 new housing units are slated for completion by June next year.
Legal Framework Governing Plot Development and Revocation
Addressing concerns about potential backlash from allottees, Omotosho emphasized that many landowners have held onto their plots for decades without initiating development, contravening the Housing Corporation’s regulations. According to the Oyo State Housing Corporation Law of 2001, any plot left undeveloped beyond two years or unpaid for within twelve months is subject to automatic revocation.
“Our goal is for all landowners to build on their plots. However, those who have failed to develop their lands are endangering the safety of neighbors who have invested in their properties,” Omotosho stated. “Some have held allocation papers for over 25 years without progress, despite being aware of the two-year development rule.”
Revocation Process and Resident Engagement
The Corporation plans to revoke undeveloped plots but encourages landowners ready to commence construction to engage with the Corporation promptly. Omotosho clarified that the revocation policy is strictly enforced by law and is not an arbitrary land grab.
“We are the Oyo State Housing Corporation, not a land bank. Allocations are not meant to be held indefinitely without development. Our responsibility is to safeguard residents and ensure all estates under our jurisdiction are safe and habitable,” he affirmed.
Residents Advocate for Enhanced Security and Enforcement
Deacon Idowu Aladejobi, representing Owode Estate Phase II residents, confirmed that the community had formally appealed to the Housing Corporation due to the frequent use of undeveloped plots by criminals to launch attacks. He described the abandoned lands as “danger zones” and welcomed the Corporation’s move to revoke undeveloped plots as a positive step.
“The original agreement clearly states that plots not developed within three years will be revoked and reassigned. We urge the government to act decisively so that those willing to build can do so, while those unwilling relinquish their plots,” Aladejobi said.
He also highlighted the absence of consistent security presence in the estate, which leaves residents vulnerable. “At night, we live in fear and sleep with one eye open. We request a permanent security detail, ideally an Amotekun team stationed within the estate,” he appealed.
Community Optimism for Future Developments
Other residents expressed hope that the recent inspection and commitments by the Oyo State Housing Corporation will catalyze meaningful progress in securing and fully developing Owode Estate Phase II, fostering a safer and more livable environment for all.
