Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has said the All Progressives Congress will not be denied access to Mapo Hall, Ibadan, for its presidential campaign if it meets the stipulated requirements for using the public facility.
Makinde said government-owned facilities belonged to the people and should be managed fairly, transparently and without political bias.
The governor’s position was contained in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Dr Sulaimon Olanrewaju, amid concerns over the proposed use of Mapo Hall by the APC.
He said the state government remained committed to providing a level playing field for political parties, regardless of their affiliations.
According to him, any political party or organisation that fulfils the established conditions for using public facilities should not face discrimination or unjust restrictions.
Makinde explained that access to government-owned venues was subject to laid-down procedures designed to ensure proper use, maintenance and public order.
He added that democracy thrived when political parties had equal opportunities to engage with voters within the framework of the law.
The governor also urged political actors to conduct their activities peacefully and responsibly, while calling on relevant authorities to handle applications for public facilities professionally and impartially.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to political tolerance, democratic freedoms and the lawful participation of all political interests in the state.
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