Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has confirmed that the All Progressives Congress (APC) and other political parties can use Mapo Hall in Ibadan, provided they meet the established conditions for accessing public facilities.
The governor made the position clear in response to concerns surrounding the proposed use of the historic venue by the APC for its presidential campaign activities.
According to a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Dr Sulaimon Olanrewaju, Makinde reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fairness, inclusiveness and democratic principles.
He stressed that public assets belong to the people of Oyo State and must be administered in a transparent, equitable manner, free from partisan considerations.
“No political party should be denied access to public facilities in Oyo State provided the established requirements for their use are duly satisfied,” the governor said.
Makinde noted that access to government-owned facilities is governed by laid-down procedures and regulations designed to ensure proper use, maintenance and public order.
He maintained that any political party or organisation that fulfils the stipulated conditions should not face discrimination or unjust restrictions.
The governor added that his administration remains committed to providing a level playing field for all political stakeholders, stressing that democracy thrives when parties are given equal opportunities to engage with the electorate within the framework of the law.
The clarification followed earlier reports that the APC’s request to use Mapo Hall had been declined on the grounds that the date had already been booked by another applicant.
