Oyo government demolishes abandoned De Castle Inn over security concerns

Summary

• The Oyo State Government has demolished the long-abandoned De Castle Inn in Ibadan, citing its use as a criminal hideout
• The unique structure, left unused for over a decade, was reportedly linked to theft, drug use, and other illicit activities
• Authorities plan to convert the site into an armory and training ground for Amotekun, the regional security network

Ibadan, Nigeria —The Oyo State Government has begun the demolition of the abandoned De Castle Inn, a once-iconic hotel located along the Total Garden-Gate axis on Queen Elizabeth II Road, Ibadan.

Known for its distinctive design resembling an airplane or ship, the building had reportedly become a hotspot for illegal activity after lying unused for over ten years.

The abandoned De Castle Inn before the demolition 

Officials said the demolition followed concerns that the structure had become a refuge for criminals, with increasing reports of bag and phone snatching, drug use, and other crimes in the vicinity.

In February 2024, the Oyo State Commissioner for Lands, Housing, Survey, and Urban Development, William Akin-Funmilayo, had warned property owners that abandoned buildings posing security risks could be seized by the state.

The state government confirmed the acquisition of the property, along with surrounding land, with plans to repurpose it as an operational base, armory, and training ground for Amotekun, the regional security outfit active across the southwest. It remains unclear if the original owner, said to be outside the country, will receive compensation.

This move is part of the Oyo State Government’s broader policy to address urban security by eliminating derelict structures associated with criminal activity.