Oyo sets up N1bn fund for MSMEs, victims of police brutality

Oyo State Government has directed that a N500 million MSME fund be set up to fund youth entrepreneurs in the State with bright business ideas

This was disclosed by Governor Seyi Makinde while speaking at the Post-Protest Meeting with Traditional Rulers and other Stakeholders, held at Agodi, Ibadan.

According to the Governor, the fund will provide further employment and improve the economic landscape in Oyo State.

The Governor also approved N500 million as compensation to victims of police brutality and injustice. This fund is to encourage anyone who has suffered any form of injustice in the past or as a result of the #EndSARS protests.

He said, “I have directed that a N500 Million MSME fund be set up. This fund will be disbursed to youths who have bright entrepreneurial ideas that will provide further employment and improve the economic landscape in Oyo State.”

“Let me also state that we have set up an initial Five Hundred Million Naira (N500million) Compensation Fund for victims of injustice.

“So, I encourage everyone who has suffered any form of injustice in the past or as a result of the #EndSARS protests, to please take advantage of the platforms we have provided to log their cases.

“We have an email service and a direct reporting portal on the Oyo State Government website. A judicial panel for Oyo State will be inaugurated in the next one week to look into cases of injustice.”

He stated further, “We know that the protests have been a result of simmering anger among the youths. We are aware of the economic situation, especially the reduced income of many due to the COVID-19 pandemic and also the general unemployment situation in the country.

“Let me reassure you that we will continue to prioritize actions that will positively impact the youths.”