Forest reserves are one of nature’s ways of maintaining biodiversity and a thriving ecosystem, and they should be preserved at all costs. Over the years in Ibadan, we have witnessed several forest reserves converted to residential areas, compromising biodiversity. Labode Popoola and Opeyemi Ajewole (2001) recorded that the Ibadan metropolis had four forest reserves which has been destroyed and converted to residential quarters among which were the Alalubosa Forest Reserve 1916, Oke Aremo Forest Reserve 1935, Ogunpa Dam Forest Reserve 1931 and Eleyele forest reserve 1956.
The Ogunpa Dam forest reserve was constituted in 1931 to protect the reservoir catchment area of Ogunpa Dam and remains one of the two fairly standing forest reserves in Ibadan which acts as a buffer for the Ogunpa River. The forest reserve houses the agodi gardens formerly called Agodi Zoological and Botanical Gardens which was created to be a protected area in 1967. The garden was destroyed by the Ogunpa flood disaster in 1980 as most of the animals were swept away by the raging water. The garden was renovated in 2012 by the Oyo State Government and was reopened in 2014.
Unfortunately, the threat that is about to befall the Ogunpa Dam forest reserve is not new, as it had been given away for the construction of the cultural centre, Hotels and public schools in previous years, and now a new project, Baywood estate, is said to occupy 46.3 hectares of the forest reserve according to the Oyo State Commissioner for Lands Housing and Urban Development, Mr Williams Akin-Funmilayo.
Government’s Response:
The government’s justification for the conversion revolves around addressing security concerns, reducing housing deficits, and ultimately improving the state’s socio-economic conditions.
Governor Seyi Makinde asserts that Baywood Estate aims to serve the people of Oyo state and ensures no harm to the Agodi Gardens. The focus, according to him, is on uplifting people from poverty, with the expectation that prosperity will naturally lead to overall improvement.
However, this government stance raises questions about the political will to safeguard biodiversity and uphold climate justice. The proposed estate may cater to the affluent, leaving the average citizen vulnerable to potential natural disasters.
On the 17th of December 2023, civil organisations, and nature lovers in Ibadan conducted a green walk to protest against the deforestation of the forest.
Prominent conservationist and youth-led groups across the country and abroad such as Joseph Onoja, Tunde Morakinyo, Jennifer Uchendu, Cathy Watson, SustyVibes, and Nigeria Youth Biodiversity Network among others have equally raised their voice to condemn this act by the government. Concerns have also been raised on whether an environmental Impact assessment has been carried out before the start of the demolition.
The Stakes: Balancing Development and Conservation
The demolition of the Ogunpa Dam Forest Reserve for the Baywood Estate raises critical concerns about the balance between development and conservation. The demolition poses a threat to the ecological balance of the region as forests are vital for a thriving ecosystem, playing host to numerous plant and animal species in fact, they serve as living laboratories for scientific research and education. This conversion would lead to the loss of green spaces, and natural sinks, exacerbating threat on natural habitats, and ultimately negatively impacting the well-being of the many people..
What better options does the government have?
On the flip side, the Ogunpa Dam Forest Reserve holds considerable economic value for the state, which can contribute to the economy through various means such as the following:
Ecotourism: Instead of demolishing the forest reserve, the government can invest in enhancing and promoting sustainable ecotourism within the Ogunpa Dam Forest Reserve. These may include eco-friendly facilities, guided nature trails, and educational programs to attract visitors while preserving the natural habitat. These can generate revenue through entrance fees, guided tours, eco-friendly activities, and even events, contributing to the local economy.
Biodiversity-based Industries: Forest reserves often house diverse flora and fauna, supporting industries such as herbal medicine, and other non-timber forest products. Preserving this reserve could provide potential economic streams for the government.
Environmental Services: Forest reserves can provide essential environmental services for the state, including carbon sequestration, water purification, and climate regulation.
International Aid and Grants: The state can generate a good amount of money through grants and aids to support conservation projects.
Green Bonds at the State Level: The government can explore the possibility of issuing green bonds at the state level to raise funds specifically for conservation projects. Investors, including environmentally conscious individuals and institutions, can contribute to the preservation of the forest by investing in these green bonds.
Integrating Debt-for-Nature Swaps at the National Level: This approach entails fostering a national-level agreement wherein a portion of the state’s debt is traded for a commitment to environmental preservation. Instead of repaying a segment of the owed funds, the government pledges to allocate that amount towards initiatives dedicated to conserving nature spaces such as the Ogunpa forest reserve.
In conclusion, the potential consequences of the forest’s destruction extend beyond immediate economic gains and may inadvertently overlook the economic benefits derived from the preservation of the natural habitat. The government’s decision should weigh short-term gains against long-term benefits, ensuring a sustainable and prosperous future for the state. This calls for careful planning, transparent decision-making, and the incorporation of sustainable practices to ensure that development enhances rather than diminishes the natural and economic wealth of the state.
Author: Hannah Omokhaye