The Catholic Community in Ibadan is aware of recent publications alleging the Cathedral Church at Oke-Padre, Ibadan of violating environmental laws of the state. 

It is important to address this unfortunate claim and correct the alleged case of violation of environmental laws. While it is true that there was a mini drainage leakage from the toilet facility of St. Mary Model School, it is however, not true that St. Mary Catholic Cathedral violated any environmental regulation. 

In addition, there was never a time the authority of the Church or the management of the school received any complaint from the residence community. Moreover, if there was any strong “foul odour,” we believe that the community would have brought it to the notice of the school authority, especially as the latter is a strong and active member of the community Landlord Association. Furthermore, there has never been any notice or communication from the Ministry of Environment or any other government agency on the matter prior to the sealing of the affected facility and the gate of the Cathedral Church.

We acknowledge and appreciate the timely intervention of the Commissioner for Environment, Barr. Seun Ashamu and the Chief Whip of the Oyo State House of Assembly in resolving the matter and ensuring that there is no escalation of the subject.

We wish to emphasize that the Catholic Church in Ibadan remains a law abiding and peace-loving institution.

The Church also uses this medium to engage all relevant government agencies to ensure that they act ONLY on lawful/valid complaints and documents, properly signed and addressed, to avoid miscarriage of justice as there are many individuals and groups who want to use state instruments to further their illegitimate cause.

SIGNED:

Rev. Fr. Julius A. Akinyode

Cathedral Administrator

Catholic Archdiocese of Ibadan

Tuesday, 3rd June, 2025