Abiola Ajimobi, governor of Oyo state, says being physically challenged is not an excuse to break the law.
The governor said this in an interview with BBC Yoruba.
The Oyo government had pulled down Yinka Ayefele’s Music House, reportedly estimated at N800 million.
This sparked outrage, with many accusing the governor of not being sympathetic to the plight of the musician who was confined to a wheelchair after an accident.
The building also had a radio station, Fresh FM, which is very popular in Ibadan, the state capital.
The government had said the building contravened the the laws of the state.
Despite the widespread criticisms, Ajimobi did not see anything wrong in the action of his administration.
The demolished building
“Just like the house they said we demolished, that man didn’t obey the law, now. People are now saying because he’s physically challenged; so if one is physically challenged, then he should break the law?” asked Ajimobi who spoke in Yoruba.
“They said he employed people, are armed robbers not employers of labour too? Should we now say because armed robbers employ people, they should continue to rob and terrorise others?”
“We shall pity them… But we have to obey the law.”
In 2016 when he visited Fresh FM, he had nothing but praises for Music House. At the time, Ajimobi described the studio as the best in Oyo state.
Flanked by Ayefele, the governor had said to the interviewers: “I’m happy I did not demolish this building. Here I am today with Ayefele mingling with him. I’m happy to come here and may God make this company prosperous. I am particularly happy with the organisation of this establishment. I’m someone who likes things to be organised.
“This is the best studio I have seen in Oyo state. I’m not trying to flatter you, you can still ask whatever questions you want.”