APC, others can use Mapo Hall if conditions met — Makinde

Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fairness, inclusiveness and democratic principles, stressing that no political party should be denied access to public facilities in the state if it meets the established requirements for their use.

Makinde, according to a statement issued on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Media, Dr Sulaimon Olanrewaju, made the position clear in response to concerns surrounding the proposed use of Mapo Hall, Ibadan, by the All Progressives Congress for its presidential campaign.

According to the governor, “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 maintained that his administration remained committed to providing a level playing field for all political stakeholders, irrespective of party affiliation, stressing that democracy thrived when all parties were given equal opportunities to engage with the electorate within the framework of the law.

He reiterated that “access to government-owned facilities is governed by laid-down procedures and regulations designed to ensure proper use, maintenance, and public order. Consequently, any political party or organisation that fulfils the stipulated conditions should not face discrimination or unjust restrictions in accessing such facilities.”

The governor urged all political actors to conduct their activities peacefully and responsibly, while calling on relevant authorities to ensure that administrative processes relating to the use of public facilities were handled professionally, fairly and without bias.

“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.