Oyo APC Accuses Governor Makinde of Squandering ₦2.9 Billion on 50th Anniversary Celebration
The Oyo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has accused Governor Seyi Makinde of mismanaging public funds following the recent 50th anniversary celebration of the state, alleging that nearly ₦2.9 billion was spent on the commemorative events.
In a statement issued by the party’s Publicity Secretary, Wasiu Olawale Sadare, the opposition party claimed that the Makinde-led administration deducted ₦90 million from the federal allocation of each of the state’s 33 local government councils to finance the anniversary celebration. According to the APC, the deductions alone amounted to approximately ₦2.97 billion, sparking concerns about transparency and accountability in the management of public resources.
The statement alleged that the deductions were made ostensibly to fund the anniversary programme, while additional undisclosed funds were reportedly taken from the state government’s treasury for the same purpose. The party questioned the necessity and scale of the expenditure, asking what tangible benefits were derived from the reported billions spent.
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The APC also criticised several activities that formed part of the anniversary celebrations. These included an air show, conferment of awards on selected individuals, distribution of Ankara uniforms reportedly associated with members of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and a novelty football match. The opposition party described the events as extravagant and politically motivated, suggesting that public funds may have been used for partisan interests.
The controversy comes amid growing political tension in Oyo State, with the APC pledging to continue scrutinising the Makinde administration over what it describes as questionable financial decisions. The party referenced earlier allegations by former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose, who claimed that the Oyo State Government received substantial federal relief funds related to the 2024 Ibadan explosion but failed to utilise them effectively. The APC has characterised the PDP-led administration in the state as one driven by propaganda and lacking financial transparency.
The 50th anniversary celebration of Oyo State featured a series of high-profile events, including a thanksgiving service attended by political leaders and dignitaries. Among those present was former presidential candidate Peter Obi, who reportedly commended Governor Makinde’s approach to governance and use of public funds. However, the celebrations were not without controversy, as some traditional leaders, including the Alaafin, reportedly distanced themselves from certain events amid unresolved tensions with the state government.
Public reaction to the allegations has been mixed. Some residents and commentators have called for an independent audit of the anniversary expenditure to clarify how funds were allocated and spent. Others have defended the state government, arguing that major anniversaries often involve significant spending and that the allegations may be politically motivated given the rivalry between the APC and PDP.
As of the time of this report, the Oyo State Government has not issued an official response to the accusations. Efforts by journalists to obtain comments from the governor’s media aides have reportedly not yielded a response.
Political analysts suggest that the dispute could further intensify political competition in the state as future elections approach. They note that allegations of financial mismanagement often become focal points in Nigeria’s political discourse, especially in states where rival parties are preparing for upcoming electoral contests.
Observers say the unfolding controversy highlights ongoing debates over public spending priorities, fiscal transparency, and the role of opposition parties in holding governments accountable at the state level.