De Castle Inn, once a well-known hotel along Queen Elizabeth II Road in the Total Garden-Gate area of Ibadan, has been demolished.

Heavy machinery was spotted at the site early in the morning as demolition crews brought down the longstanding structure that had previously served as a busy hospitality spot in Oyo State’s capital.

While the exact reason for the demolition has not been officially confirmed, there is growing speculation that it may be part of a broader move by the state government to tackle abandoned or underused buildings across the city.

In recent months, the government has issued several warnings about its intention to reclaim or remove such properties, citing urban development and safety concerns.

Residents say the hotel had not been in full operation for some time, sparking assumptions it may have been tagged for removal under these directives.

As of the time of this report, no official statement has been made by state authorities.