Ekiti Government Disburses N300 Million Compensation to Landowners for Cargo Airport Construction
The Ekiti State Government has allocated N300 million in compensation to 377 landowners whose properties were appropriated for the development of the State Agro Allied Cargo Airport in Ado-Ekiti. Governor Biodun Oyebanji made this announcement on Thursday, during a cheque distribution event for affected landowners from the areas of Ijan, Igbemo, Afao, and Iworoko.
In addition to compensating landowners, the government also provided payments to individuals whose economic trees and lands were acquired for the airport’s construction. The governor, represented by Deputy Governor Monisade Afuye, emphasized that this marks the third and final phase of compensation for individuals and families impacted by the land acquisition process.
Governor Oyebanji urged those yet to receive compensation for the land taken in the public interest to refrain from hindering the work of contractors operating on the site. He reassured them that the government is committed to addressing their concerns and compensating their losses appropriately.
The purpose of the airport, according to Oyebanji, is to enhance the state’s connectivity to both national and international markets, serving as a gateway for agriculture, commerce, and tourism, which will ultimately stimulate local businesses. He promised that the benefits of the facility would be fully realized for the Ekiti people once it is operational.
The governor expressed gratitude to the farmers and landowners for their sacrifices, asserting that the distribution of compensation reflects the government’s appreciation of their commitment to a greater cause.
“The claimants we honor today have shown a remarkable dedication to the future of Ekiti, willingly adjusting their lives for the collective benefit of all citizens in the state,” Oyebanji stated. “This demonstrates our administration’s commitment to meeting our promises. We recognize that providing timely and fair compensation is both a legal obligation and a moral imperative.”
In his address, Prof. James Olaleye, Special Adviser to the governor on Geographic Information System, Lands, and Survey, noted that the compensation serves as a form of indemnification for the losses experienced by the landowners. He expressed hope that the compensation would alleviate their burdens.
“I trust that those affected will appreciate the genuine efforts of this government to address their concerns promptly. I assure all claimants still awaiting compensation for other projects that their payments will be settled soon,” he added.
In response to the compensation efforts, Chief Ojo Awe and Mr. Olufemi Oso spoke on behalf of the benefitting communities, praising the governor for his understanding and swift action regarding the hardships faced by landowners.
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