Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has said that the All Progressives Congress (APC) and other political parties can use the state-owned Mapo Hall in Ibadan for political activities, provided they meet the established requirements.
Makinde reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fairness, inclusiveness and democratic principles amid concerns over the proposed use of the historic venue by the APC for its presidential campaign.
The governor’s position was contained in a statement issued on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Media, Dr Sulaimon Olanrewaju.
According to the statement, Makinde maintained that public facilities belong to the people of Oyo State and must be managed transparently and without political bias.
He stressed that no political party should be denied access to government-owned facilities on the basis of its political affiliation, provided it complies with the regulations governing their use.
“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,” the governor said.
Makinde explained that access to government facilities was subject to established procedures designed to ensure proper utilisation, maintenance and public order.
He added that political parties and other organisations that fulfilled the stipulated conditions should not face discrimination or unnecessary restrictions.
The governor further noted that democracy could only thrive when all political parties had equal opportunities to engage with voters within the framework of the law.
He urged political actors to conduct their activities peacefully and responsibly, while calling on relevant authorities to ensure that applications for the use of public facilities were handled professionally and impartially.
According to the statement, the Oyo State Government remains committed to promoting political tolerance, protecting democratic freedoms and creating an environment where legitimate political interests can operate freely in accordance with the law.
The development comes amid preparations for the 2027 general elections, with political parties expected to intensify their campaigns and engagements with voters across the country.
