Makinde approves equal access to public facilities for all parties
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has declared that no political party will be denied access to government-owned facilities in the state, provided it meets the established requirements, amid concerns over the All Progressives Congress’s proposed use of Mapo Hall in Ibadan for its presidential campaign.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Media, Sulaimon Olanrewaju, the governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fairness, political tolerance and equal opportunities for all parties ahead of the 2027 general election.
“Public assets belong to the people of Oyo State and must be administered in a manner that is transparent, equitable, and devoid of partisan considerations,” Makinde said.
The governor maintained that his administration would provide a level playing field for political stakeholders, regardless of party affiliation, stressing that democratic participation must not be undermined by discriminatory administrative decisions.
He said access to public facilities remained subject to established procedures designed to ensure proper use, maintenance and public order.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, SIR
HIS EXCELLENCY, RT. HON. AHMADU UMARU FINTIRI
HAPPY 59TH BIRTHDAY, YOUR EXCELLENCY! The Governing Council, Management, Staff and entire University Community of Adamawa State University, Mubi, heartily felicitate with Your Excellency on the joyous occasion of your 59th birthday. We celebrate your commitment to educational advancement and the development of Adamawa State. May Almighty God grant you sound health, divine wisdom, long life and greater accomplishments. Happy 59th Birthday, Your Excellency!
Professor Clement Augustine, Vice Chancellor, ADSU, Mubi
“Access to government-owned facilities is governed by laid-down procedures and regulations designed to ensure proper use, maintenance, and public order,” he said.
“Consequently, any political party or organisation that fulfils the stipulated conditions should not face discrimination or unjust restrictions in accessing such facilities.”
Makinde urged political parties and their supporters to conduct campaign activities peacefully and responsibly, warning against actions capable of disrupting public order.
He also directed relevant authorities to ensure that applications for government-owned venues were handled professionally, transparently and without political bias.
The governor stressed that public institutions must serve all citizens rather than the interests of any particular political party.
“The Oyo State Government remains committed to promoting political tolerance, protecting democratic freedoms, and fostering an environment where all legitimate political interests can freely operate in accordance with the law,” the statement said.
His remarks followed concerns surrounding the APC’s proposed use of Mapo Hall, a prominent public venue in Ibadan, for its presidential campaign activities.
The statement did not confirm whether the party had formally secured approval to use the venue or whether any outstanding administrative requirements remained.
Makinde maintained that political differences should not prevent parties from exercising their democratic rights within the law.