How Seyi Makinde-built Circular Road sparked civil war in APC

 

By Sulaimon Olanrewaju

The Ibadan Circular Road has done far more than reshape the physical landscape of Oyo State; it has detonated a political crisis inside the All Progressives Congress (APC), exposing a party locked in open warfare with itself over a project it neither conceived nor funded. As the APC led Federal Government rushes to smuggle the Circular Road into its list of achievements, the party’s own gubernatorial candidate in Oyo State, Senator Sharafadeen Alli, is simultaneously tearing the same project to shreds - calling it inflated, defective, and politically tainted. In one monumental road, the APC has managed both to celebrate and to sabotage the same achievement, revealing a level of internal confusion and desperation that Governor ‘Seyi Makinde’s infrastructure legacy has now made impossible to hide.

The Ibadan Circular Road began in 2005 under Governor Rashidi Ladoja, who conceived the 110 km project and acquired a 150 metre Right of Way. In 2017, Governor Abiola Ajimobi expanded the corridor to 1 kilometre in line with the new Ibadan Master Plan and concessions it to ENL. 

When Governor Makinde assumed office in 2019, the project was dormant, prompting a review of its concession structure. In July 2021, the state re awarded the entire project to the SEL–Vydra Consortium, marking the true start of active construction. At no point did the Federal Government make any contribution to the project.

What makes the APC’s internal clash astonishing is that the Ibadan Circular Road is not a project that invites controversy. It is a project that commands admiration. Its sweeping geometry, modern interchanges, and wide, meticulously engineered carriageways have given Ibadan a new visual and infrastructural identity - one that signals ambition, competence, and a metropolis ready for the future. Even in its partially completed state, the road has begun to transform mobility across the city, easing congestion, opening new development corridors, and offering a cleaner, faster alternative to old, overburdened routes. Ordinarily, such a project unites political actors in praise. Yet within the APC, this landmark achievement has become the trigger for a political firestorm, turning a symbol of progress into the epicentre of a bitter internal war.

A particularly striking dimension of this conflict is Senator Sharafadeen Alli’s posture. In his scramble for political mileage, Alli, who is addled, has chosen to deny the beauty, scale, and transformative power of a project that members of his own party at the national level are openly applauding.

 His attacks on the Circular Road are not rooted in technical critique or policy analysis; they are driven by the urgency of cheap politics. Even as the APC Federal Government attempts to showcase the road as a symbol of progress, Alli insists on portraying it as a failure; dismissing the very features, from modern interchanges to improved mobility and new development corridors, that have earned the project widespread admiration. In doing so, he positions himself against an achievement that is visibly reshaping Ibadan and contradicts the narrative of his own party’s leadership.

Instead of rallying around this transformative project, the APC has turned it into a stage for internal combat.

 The Federal Government’s eagerness to appropriate the Circular Road as its own achievement - despite not conceiving, funding, or executing it - has collided head on with Alli’s determination to weaponize the same project against the incumbent governor. What should have been a straightforward celebration of progress has become a political tug of war, with Abuja dragging the road into its national scorecard while Alli drags it into the mud of local politicking.

 In the process, the APC has exposed a deep fracture within its ranks: a party unable to agree on whether the Circular Road is a triumph worth claiming or a failure worth attacking.

What emerges from this clash is not merely a disagreement over infrastructure, but a revealing portrait of a party struggling with its own identity. The APC Federal Government, desperate to showcase development footprints across the Southwest, has latched onto the Circular Road as a convenient symbol of progress, though it played no role in its conception or execution. 

Meanwhile, Alli, driven by the urgency of local politics, has chosen to undermine the same project to weaken the incumbent. These two impulses - one grasping for borrowed glory, the other tearing down genuine achievement - collide violently at the Circular Road, turning a landmark project into a battlefield for competing ambitions within the same political family.

What this contradiction ultimately reveals is a troubling pattern within the APC at both the state and national levels. A party that can, in one breath, claim credit for a project it neither conceived nor funded, and in the next breath attack the same project as a failure, is a party struggling with consistency, sincerity, and credibility. 

Such behaviour reflects a political culture built on opportunism rather than principle; one that thrives on falsehood, selective narratives, and convenient distortions. When a party oscillates so wildly between praise and condemnation depending on whose interest is served, it shows that it is not deserving of the public’s trust; it shows that it is not a party that should be entrusted with the destiny of the people.

In the end, the Ibadan Circular Road does more than showcase the beauty of modern infrastructure; it exposes the fault lines within a political party that cannot decide whether to celebrate progress or sabotage it. It reveals a party torn between national ambition and local desperation, between the urge to claim and the urge to destroy. 

It reveals a party at war with itself over a road that has become too important, too visible, and too politically valuable to ignore. And in that contradiction lies the story of a party whose internal civil war was birthed not by ideology or policy, but by a road built to move a city forward - a party confused about what is good for the people, and one that should be rejected at the polls, not just in Oyo State but across the country.

Dr Olanrewaju is the Special Adviser (Media) to the Governor of Oyo State. 

OYRTMA Officer Assaulted During Traffic Control at General Gas, Suspect Arrested

A female officer of the Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA) was allegedly assaulted by a motorist on Friday, October 2, 2026, at the General Gas Command, Ibadan, during a road repair operation.

The incident occurred while the Kopek Construction Company was carrying out repairs on damaged sections of the General Gas Bridge. 

The construction company arrived at about 10:00 a.m. to commence the repair work, leading to the temporary closure of a portion of the road.

To ease traffic movement and prevent congestion, an alternative route was provided, while OYRTMA and officers of the Nigeria Police Force were deployed to strategic diversion points to direct motorists. Most road users complied with the traffic directives and used the designated alternative route.

However, at about 4:05 p.m., a driver of a green Toyota Camry reportedly attempted to pass through the restricted section of the road. The female OYRTMA officer on duty approached the driver and directed him to use the alternative route because of the ongoing construction work.

Rather than complying with the directive, the driver allegedly alighted from his vehicle and repeatedly slapped the officer, who was in full uniform and had been performing her official duties since the morning.

The incident attracted the attention of residents, passersby and other motorists, who intervened to prevent further escalation. Officers of the Nigeria Police Force from Akobo Divisional Police Station also arrived at the scene and arrested the suspect.

The suspect was subsequently taken to Akobo Divisional Police Station, where he was detained pending his arraignment before a court on Monday.

Reacting to the incident, the Executive Chairman of OYRTMA Major Adekoya Adesagba (Rtd), condemned the alleged assault, describing it as unacceptable and stressing that officers deployed to the roads were performing their statutory responsibilities to ensure order and the free flow of traffic.

“This unprovoked attack on our officer is totally unacceptable. Our officers are on the road to serve the public and ensure order, not to be assaulted. We will not tolerate any form of violence against OYRTMA personnel,”Adekoya said 

He commended the police, motorists, residents and other witnesses for their prompt intervention, adding that the Authority would continue to monitor the matter and ensure that due legal process was followed.

Adesagba  also urged motorists to cooperate with traffic management personnel, particularly during road construction, diversion and other operations designed to protect road users and facilitate smooth movement.

OYRTMA reiterated its commitment to protecting its personnel while carrying out their official duties and maintaining safety and orderly traffic movement across Oyo State.

 

Protect Civil Service Image, Mentor Younger Officers, Oyo HOS Tells Perm Secs

 

The Oyo State Head of Service, Dr. Adenike Fasina, mni has charged Permanent Secretaries and other public servants to remain resilient, uphold professionalism and protect the image of the Civil Service in the society.

She  gave this charge during an experience-sharing session tagged “Courtesy Visit to the Head of Service”, organised for retiring Accounting Officers in the Oyo State Civil Service,  the programme was held at the HOS Conference Room, Secretariat, Ibadan.

The Head of Service urged the Permanent Secretaries to continue to play their leadership roles effectively and mentor younger officers to strengthen the Civil Service and improve service delivery across Ministries, Departments and Agencies.

She advised the retiring Permanent Secretaries to remain good ambassadors of the Civil Service even after leaving the active service, stressing that, their responsibilities to society should not end with their retirement.

She said "maintaining good health and contributing  positively to your  communities would enable you to make meaningful contributions to the society.

She continued  “Take good care of your health and assist your community where necessary,  this will go a long way as part of your social responsibility." 

Dr. Fasina enjoined the retiring Accounting Officers to make their wealth of experience available to younger generations, noting that, effective mentorship and knowledge transfer is essential to sustaining the gains of the Civil Service.

Responding on behalf of the retiring Permanent Secretaries, TPL. Olufemi Akinwale appreciated the present administration in the State under the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde for giving them the opportunity to serve as Permanent Secretaries in the State Civil/Public Service.

Akinwale said their appointment provided them with an opportunity to attain the peak of their careers while contributing to the development of the state through public service.

He expressed appreciation for the experience gained during their years in service and the opportunity to share their knowledge and expertise with younger officers.

Abiodun Atilola 

Media Officer to the SSG/HOS 

October 2, 2026.

NIGERIA AT 66: OYSCOHEST PROVOST FELICITATES STAFF, STUDENTS

The Provost of the Oyo State College of Health Science and Technology (OYSCOHEST), Eleyele, Ibadan, *Pharm. Oluyemisi Oyewo*, has congratulated the staff and students of the College on Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary, urging them to remain hopeful, resilient and committed to the progress of the College and the nation.

In a statement issued on her behalf by the College Public Relations Officer, Mr Sola Samuel Ojewole, the Provost thanked God for preserving members of the College community despite the prevailing socio-economic challenges.

Oyewo commended the staff for their resilience, dedication and unwavering commitment to duty, noting that their collective efforts have continued to contribute to the growth and advancement of OYSCOHEST.

She equally appreciated the students and urged the entire College community to uphold the good name and reputation of the institution through discipline, hard work, excellence and responsible conduct.

The Provost encouraged the staff and students to remain prayerful and optimistic, stressing that the present challenges should not diminish their hope for a better future.

“As we celebrate Nigeria at 66, let us remain grateful to God for His sustaining grace, speak positively about our College and our nation, and continue to contribute our quota towards their progress. With unity, resilience and commitment, we can look forward to a brighter future,” she said.

Oyewo prayed for peace, good health, protection and greater accomplishments for members of the College community and their families, as well as peace, stability and prosperity for Nigeria.

She wished the staff, students and all Nigerians a *happy and peaceful 66th Independence Anniversary.

Oyo Advisory Council Hails Governor Makinde on Peace, Security as Nigeria Marks 66th Independence Anniversary

 

The Chairman Oyo State Advisory Council, Chief Bolaji Ayorinde SAN, OFR has congratulated Governor Seyi Makinde, the government and people of Oyo State, as well as Nigerians, on the occasion of the 66th anniversary of Nigeria’s Independence.

The Council, in a congratulatory message to the governor, said the anniversary provided an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the nation’s journey and renew their commitment to building a peaceful, prosperous and united country.

Chief Ayorinde noted that Nigeria was at a defining moment in its history, stressing that the hopes of millions of Nigerians, particularly young people, women, workers, farmers, entrepreneurs, professionals and senior citizens, depended largely on purposeful governance and strong public institutions.

The Council called for sustained commitment to peace and security across Oyo State and the country at large, saying that, meaningful development could only take place in an environment where lives and property were adequately protected.

He pointed out that safe communities would enable farmers to cultivate their land, businesses to thrive, children to attend school and families to live without fear.

 "I urged stakeholders to support initiatives centred on dialogue, intelligence-led security, conflict prevention and peaceful resolution of disputes".

The Chairman Advisory Council admonished residents of Oyo State to use the Independence Day celebration to reflect on their responsibilities to the state and nation, urging citizens to demonstrate patriotism through their daily conduct.

The statement said "Nigerians should not only celebrate Independence Day with flags, ceremonies and speeches, but should also contribute to the common good by supporting lawful institutions, respecting one another and taking an active interest in the development of their communities".

Chief Bolaji Ayorinde urged Governor Makinde, as he continues to lead Oyo State and pursue his political aspirations as the presidential candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), to remain committed to integrity, fairness, compassion and courage in public leadership.

The Council reaffirmed its support for what it described as Governor Makinde’s “Reset Agenda”, particularly its emphasis on inclusive development, accountable leadership, economic renewal, youth empowerment, social cohesion and the protection of democratic values.

Chief Ayorinde congratulated Governor Seyi Makinde, the people of Oyo State and all Nigerians on the 66th Independence Anniversary and called for collective efforts towards building a nation where peace, security, dignity and opportunity are accessible to all.

                 Signed

1. Chief Bolaji Ayorinde SAN, OFR - Chairman

2. Senator Monsurat Jumoke Sunmonu - Member

3. Senator Andrew Abidemi O. Babablola PhD - Member

4. Senator Kamarudeen Adedibu - Member

5. Alhaji Bashir Ajibade - Member

6. Chief Adewale Atanda - Member

7. Dr. Aderemi Ajibade - Member

8. Pastor Akinade Alamu - Member

9. Engr. Abu Salami - Member

10. Hon. Ezekiel Oyedepo - Member

11. Hon. (Mrs.) Lydia Bankole - Member

12. Mr. Babatunde A. Giwa - Secretary

Nigeria at 66: Uphold the rule of law, embrace unity, Makinde Charges Nigerians

 

Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, has emphasised the need for Nigeria governments to put aside nepotism,  ethnicism and religion in its administrative system .  

The governor also called on citizens of the country to uphold the rule of law and remain united irrespective of ethnicism as the country celebrates its  66th Independence Anniversary.

Delivering his address at the 66th  Independence Day Celebration held on Thursday at the Adamasingba Stadium, Ibadan, the governor, represented by the Deputy Governor, Barrister Bayo Lawal, explained that independence should not only be seen as freedom from British colonial rule, but also a call to responsible citizenship and a commitment to the continued development of the country.

He opined that poverty reduction in the society remained part of the benefits of democracy and independence, hence , the need for the government to intensify efforts in this regard.

He explained that Nigeria is currently facing  numerous challenges, stressing the need for greater unity among Nigerians.

According to him, effective governance cannot be achieved without respect for the rule of law and the fundamental principles of democracy.

" We have numerous ethnic groups, we must learn how to live together in peace under one constitution, the ethnic groups should be our strengths and not weaknesses"

" We have a long way to go as a nation, ethnicity should be downgraded to the lowest in our administrative system for the betterment of our nation."

He urged Nigerians to appreciate the sacrifices of the nation’s past heroes, whose efforts contributed to the attainment of independence in 1960.

The Governor also highlighted some of the achievements of his administration across the geo-political zones of the  Oyo State, particularly in the areas of security, education, healthcare, infrastructure, sports and other sectors.

He explained that the Amotekun Corps has been collaborating  with security agencies and other stakeholders to maintain peace and protect lives and property across the state.

As part of activities marking the 66th Independence Anniversary, an Independence debate competition was held on Thursday, September 24, 2026, at the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology Conference Room

In the primary school category, Ojediran Olatunji of His Thought Academy, Ibadan North Local Government Area, emerged first; Omoboyewa Evans of The Maitre Builder, Ona-Ara Local Government Area, came second, while Eguabor Gideon of Sacred Heart Primary School, Ibadan South-West Local Government Area, placed third.

In the secondary school category, Fatunlete Eniibukun of the Saviour High School, Akinyele Local Government Area, emerged first; Agunlejika Toluwani of Imperial Oak College, Lagelu Local Government Area, came second, while Olawale Memunah of Oyo State Comprehensive College, Oluyole Local Government Area, came third.

The epoch making event attended by the  government officials and eminent personalities across the spheres of life , featured parades, match-past and cultural display.

Government College, Ibadan emerged winners of the secondary school match past, Bishop Philips Academy, Ibadan came second while Ibadan Boys High School went home with third position.

SENIOR CAC PASTOR, STEPHEN OLUWATOYIN AJAYI PhD CONGRATULATES NIGERIANS, URGES GOVERNMENT TO ADDRESS ECONOMIC HARDSHIP

A Senior Pastor in the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) hierarchy and DCC Superintendent, Pastor Dr. Stephen Oluwatoyin Ajayi, has felicitated with Nigerians on the occasion of the nation’s 66th Independence Anniversary, while urging governments at all levels to intensify efforts towards alleviating the economic hardship confronting citizens.

Pastor Ajayi, who made the call while fielding questions from journalists in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, appealed to the Federal, State and Local Governments to implement sustainable policies, programmes and palliative measures aimed at mitigating the effects of economic hardship, hunger, poverty and unemployment across the country.

The senior cleric expressed concern over the difficult economic conditions experienced by millions of Nigerians, particularly following the removal of the fuel subsidy on May 29, 2023. According to him, the consequent increase in the cost of petroleum products has significantly affected household incomes, transportation, businesses and other aspects of socio-economic life.

While acknowledging the resilience of Nigerians in confronting the various challenges associated with rising petroleum prices and the broader economic difficulties, Pastor Ajayi maintained that citizens should not be left to bear the burden of economic reforms without adequate institutional support.

He therefore called on the three tiers of government to introduce and sustain effective social intervention programmes that would cushion the effects of economic hardship, particularly among vulnerable members of society.

Reflecting on Nigeria’s 66 years of independence, Pastor Ajayi observed that the country still faces significant developmental challenges despite its vast human and natural resources.

He expressed concern that poverty remains widespread and that the nation continues to grapple with structural challenges that have constrained its socio-economic development. He, however, noted that Nigeria possesses sufficient human and material resources to transform its developmental trajectory if those resources are strategically harnessed and effectively managed.

The CAC cleric consequently urged the nation’s authorities to prioritise the utilisation of Nigeria’s abundant human and natural resources for national development and improved quality of life for citizens.

Pastor Ajayi also called for intensified efforts to address insecurity, banditry, kidnapping, unemployment, violent killings and hunger, describing these challenges as issues requiring urgent and coordinated governmental intervention.

He further appealed to religious organisations and faith-based institutions to sustain their prayers for the nation, particularly as Nigeria gradually approaches the 2027 general elections.

On the political environment, the senior cleric urged politicians and political actors to adhere to democratic principles and conduct their activities within the bounds of the law. He cautioned against political extremism, inflammatory rhetoric and character assassination during political campaigns, stressing the importance of peaceful and issue-based political engagement.

Pastor Ajayi emphasised that political leadership should be pursued through legitimate democratic processes rather than through coercion or violence. He encouraged political actors to place the national interest above personal or partisan considerations and to contribute to the strengthening of Nigeria’s democratic institutions.

He concluded by praying for divine wisdom and guidance for Nigeria’s leaders, urging them to govern with the fear of God, integrity and a strong sense of responsibility to the Nigerian people.

According to him, effective leadership, responsible governance, prudent management of national resources and sustained commitment to the welfare of citizens remain essential to building a more peaceful, prosperous and equitable Nigeria.