The once-popular De Castle Inn, located along Queen Elizabeth II Road in the Total Garden-Gate area of Ibadan, Oyo State, has been demolished.

Demolition crews and heavy machinery were seen on-site early in the morning as the longstanding hospitality structure was pulled down. The hotel, which had previously served as a notable spot for visitors and residents in the city, had reportedly not been fully operational for some time.

While the state government is yet to issue an official statement regarding the exercise, there is growing speculation that the demolition may be linked to ongoing efforts by the Oyo State government to address abandoned or underutilised buildings in the capital.

In recent months, the government has emphasized plans to reclaim properties that are either deemed unsafe or underdeveloped as part of broader urban renewal and infrastructure development initiatives.

Some residents noted that the De Castle Inn may have been among properties identified for removal, especially as it had appeared inactive for a prolonged period.

As of the time of filing this report, no formal communication has been provided by the relevant state authorities to clarify the reasons behind the demolition.