A group of investors managing the Oyo State Government Reserve Areas (GRAs) under the aegis of the Oyo State Infrastructure Development Partners has raised concerns over the activities of unregistered estate developers allegedly exploiting the infrastructural advancements initiated by Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration.
Speaking on behalf of the group at a press conference in Ibadan, Engineer Raji Kehinde of Aaraji Construction Ltd., Tunde Balogun of Kebar Homes, Engineer Abdul-jelyl Adekunle Karheem of Afia Homes and Properties, and Engineer Edun Olajide of LFs Racoon Ltd., criticized the actions of unregistered developers, describing them as detrimental to the state’s housing sector.
“We are deeply concerned as stakeholders because these unscrupulous individuals are deceiving and defrauding unsuspecting members of the public. We have evidence of their collaboration with some greedy actors to exploit innocent buyers,” said Engineer Kehinde. “This must stop. The government needs to act swiftly to prevent further exploitation.”
He further revealed that about 18 registered companies are currently partnering with the Oyo State government on GRA projects, collectively investing over ₦100 billion to transform the state through housing and estate development. Kehinde urged the public to ensure proper certification of developers before engaging in transactions.
“People should not patronize developers just because they offer cheap land. Proper verification is crucial,” he added.
Engineer Abdul-jelyl Adekunle Karheem also warned against developers with fraudulent histories, noting that many were expelled from Lagos for similar reasons. “These individuals have relocated to Ibadan to continue their nefarious activities without proper registration. This must not be allowed to continue,” he stated.
Adekunle disclosed that the group is engaging with the state Commissioner for Lands and other relevant agencies to address the issue and protect investors drawn to Oyo State by the infrastructural development under Governor Makinde’s administration.
Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Oyo State Housing Corporation, Hon. Ademola Omotoso, represented by a board member, Hon Rev. Adeola Adeboyin, assured the public that the agency is working on measures to sanitize the sector.
“The government is committed to identifying and eliminating illegal operators and land speculators,” Adeola said. “Governor Makinde has set an unprecedented record of creating a conducive business environment, and we will not allow unscrupulous elements to undermine this progress.”
The group called on the public and investors to collaborate with registered developers to ensure the integrity of ongoing housing projects across the state.
