Oyo govt demolishes building allegedly used as arms depot in Ibadan
By Adeola Badru
The Oyo State Government has pulled down a building in Ibadan allegedly used by suspected criminals as a warehouse for arms and ammunition, as part of efforts to strengthen security and dismantle criminal operations across the state.
The demolition, carried out on Tuesday on the instruction of Governor Seyi Makinde, followed intelligence gathering and investigations by security agencies that reportedly linked the property to the storage of weapons believed to have been used in various criminal activities.
Speaking at the site, Commissioner for Public Works, Abdulmojeed Mogbonjubola, said the decision was taken after security operatives discovered a large cache of arms and ammunition within the premises.
He explained that the discovery was part of ongoing measures by the state government and security agencies to tackle growing security challenges and disrupt criminal networks operating in Oyo State.
Mogbonjubola noted that the state had recently recorded several kidnapping cases, including the abduction of schoolchildren and another involving a relative of a former federal minister.
According to him, investigations into those incidents led security agencies to a number of suspected hideouts and properties believed to be connected to kidnappers and other violent criminals.
“Following earlier security operations, this property was identified as a key storage facility for arms and ammunition, including sophisticated weapons,” he said.
He added that after an extensive investigation by the police and the submission of a comprehensive report by the Commissioner of Police, Governor Makinde approved the demolition of the building.
The commissioner said the action sends a strong message to individuals involved in kidnapping, armed robbery and other criminal activities.
“This demonstrates the Oyo State Government’s firm stance against crime. Anyone who uses property for unlawful purposes should understand that such actions will attract serious consequences,” he stated.
Although he declined to disclose the exact quantity and type of weapons recovered due to security concerns, Mogbonjubola confirmed that a significant cache of arms and ammunition was found at the location.
He further revealed that all legal and administrative requirements were fulfilled before the demolition, with the Ministry of Justice duly notified following the governor’s approval.
Responding to questions from journalists, the commissioner clarified that the demolished structure was not connected to a property previously associated with the kidnapping of the younger sister of a former minister. He explained that the latest operation was separate and specifically related to the storage of illegal weapons.
The government also urged residents to support security efforts by providing useful and timely information to law enforcement agencies.
“If you see something, report it. Landlords, property owners and estate agents should conduct proper background checks on prospective tenants before renting out their properties,” he advised.
The demolition is the latest step by the Makinde administration in its wider campaign to curb criminality and improve public safety across Oyo State.