The Oyo State Government has officially started the demolition of an abandoned building that was previously operated as a hotel in Ibadan, the state’s capital city in southwestern Nigeria. According to a reliable report from the Daily Post Nigeria (source), the structure in question is identified as De Castle Inn, strategically located at Total Garden Area along the heavily trafficked Mokola–Agodi Gate Road in Ibadan. Background of the Abandoned Hotel Demolition The property, De Castle Inn, has reportedly been left unused by its owner for several years, leading to its current dilapidated state. Over time, the abandoned nature of the building raised public safety concerns, especially as authorities noted that criminals were exploiting such deserted structures for illegal activities and hiding spots. The Oyo State Government had previously issued warnings to owners of unutilized and derelict properties across the state, urging them to repurpose or rehabilitate their buildings. The government emphasized that any structures left abandoned could become security threats and would consequently be reclaimed or demolished by the state. Official Government Statement on the Action This decisive action was confirmed by Mr. William Akin-Funmilayo, the Commissioner for Lands, Housing, Survey, and Urban Development in Oyo State. Speaking on behalf of the state government, Akin-Funmilayo reiterated in a formal statement released in February 2025 that any abandoned properties constituting a public nuisance or posing a threat to public safety would be subject to takeover or demolition by the state. Current Progress of the Demolition The demolition of the De Castle Inn commenced over the weekend, with the process still ongoing at the time of this report. In preparation for the exercise, the property within the premises had been cleared days prior. Additionally, security personnel were strategically deployed to the site to maintain peace and order, preventing any form of civil disturbance or unauthorized interference with the demolition process. As of the latest updates, heavy-duty equipment, including bulldozers and other demolition machinery, were actively engaged in pulling down the remnants of the structure. This underscores the government’s resolve to eradicate unsafe, abandoned properties within the state to enhance urban safety and development. Why This Demolition Matters for Ibadan Residents The demolition of the De Castle Inn reflects a broader government initiative to sanitize the urban landscape and curb criminal exploitation of abandoned spaces in Oyo State. Such measures are crucial in ensuring that Ibadan remains a safe and orderly city amidst rising urbanization challenges. The state government continues to encourage property owners to maintain or repurpose their assets to prevent state intervention. This step is part of Oyo State’s larger urban development and security strategy aimed at fostering safer communities. For more official information on urban policies and state actions, visit the Oyo State Government official portal.
