Ekiti pays N300m compensation to 377 farmers for airport project
Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, on Thursday, paid N300m to 377 farmers and landowners whose property was acquired for the construction of the Ekiti State Agro Allied Cargo Airport along Ado-Ijan Road.
The governor said the event marked the third and last tranche of compensation payments to individuals and families affected by the land acquisition for the state airport facility.
Oyebanji, represented by the Deputy Governor, Mrs Monisade Afuye, while distributing cheques to the affected farmers and landowners from Ijan, Igbemo, Afao, Iworoko and others, advised against disturbing contractors at project sites.
He dismissed insinuation that the airport project was a misplaced priority, saying it was intended “to expand the state economy, open new vista of economic opportunities, investments and bolster industrial drives.
“Ekiti State cargo airport project was conceived not just as an infrastructural achievement, but as a critical pillar in our mission to drive economic diversification, stimulate local industry and create new opportunities for the people of Ekiti.
“We have a vision of an airport that will not only improve the state’s connectivity to national and international markets but also serve as a gateway for agriculture, commerce and tourism, fuelling local business growth and attracting investments that will benefit our communities.”
He assured the people that all would be done to harness the gains inherent in the facility for Ekiti people when fully completed and operational, saying that creating an atmosphere of abundance remained the focus of his administration.
Oyebanji saluted the farmers and landowners for their sacrifices, commitments and patience, saying the payment of compensation was geared towards appreciating their patriotism to a lofty and common cause.
He said, “The claimants we are honouring here today have demonstrated an inspiring commitment to the future of Ekiti, agreeing to adjust their lives for a greater good that will ultimately benefit every citizen of this state.
“To you, the landowners, I say thank you for your patience and understanding. Today’s ceremony marks the disbursement of the third and final tranche of compensation to 377 claimants.
“Let this be a testament to our administration’s dedication to fulfilling its promises. We understand that the prompt and fair compensation of those affected is not only a legal obligation but a moral one. Your sacrifice and cooperation with this administration are deeply valued,” he said.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Geographic Information System, Lands and Survey, Prof James Olaleye, said the compensation served as indemnity against losses suffered by the land owners, which he said would help in putting a soothing balm on their pains.
Olaleye assured all claimants being owed compensations for other project sites that “very soon, all their dues will be settled.”
He added, “Let me urge our people to refrain from disturbing ongoing projects through threats of violence and other acts that may hinder the peace of the state.”
Speaking on behalf of the benefitting communities, Chief Ojo Awe and Mr Olufemi Oso lauded the governor for being sympathetic to the plights of the land owners through payments of the pending compensation.
