From Seye Ojo, Ibadan
The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State has criticised Governor Seyi Makinde’s 2025 budget proposal of N679 billion, calling it a “fictitious” document designed to enrich a few individuals in power rather than support the broader public interest.
The party alleged that, since assuming office in 2019, Governor Makinde has used state resources for personal gain and has not adequately involved stakeholders in the budgeting process.
Governor Makinde presented the budget to the Oyo State House of Assembly, describing it as a “Budget of Economic Stabilisation,.” However, APC’s Publicity Secretary, Olawale Sadare, questioned this, claiming that the budget process has lacked transparency and accountability. According to Sadare, the annual budget has yet to deliver the expected socio-economic and infrastructural progress in the state over the past five years, with Makinde allegedly sidelining public opinion and established processes.
APC specifically challenged the governor’s claim that the budget had significant public input, demanding details on the projects consuming 51% of the budget and questioning the implementation timeline for the recently announced N80,000 minimum wage.
The APC also expressed doubts about Makinde’s reported 70% implementation of the 2024 budget, pointing to ongoing issues in the health sector and infrastructure. Sadare noted that many public hospitals remain understaffed, and the Ibadan Urban Flood Management Project, primarily funded by the World Bank, underscores the state’s reliance on external support for major initiatives.
The APC raised concerns about recent expenditures, including a N41 billion contract for the upgrade of Ibadan Airport, which it claims was not included in the 2024 budget and lacked transparency. The party also highlighted the N5.2 billion renovation of Adamasingba Stadium, alleging that key facilities remain incomplete.
Additionally, the APC criticised recent road repair efforts, pointing out that roads in Ibadan have required multiple repairs over the past five years.
Sadare concluded by suggesting that the budget proposal includes unrealistic projects designed to justify excessive spending, warning that the administration’s alleged misuse of funds could ultimately harm the state’s financial health and development.