The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State has strongly criticized Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration over its decision to spend N63.5 billion on the renovation of the Agodi Government House, describing the move as extravagant, insensitive, and a potential threat to the state’s economy.
The criticism follows the recent approval by the Oyo State Executive Council of the hefty sum for the refurbishment of structures within the Government House. In addition, N132 million was sanctioned for hiring professional gardeners to maintain green spaces, while N14.3 billion was approved for the purchase of an Instrument Landing System (ILS) for Ladoke Akintola Airport in Ibadan.
In a statement issued over the weekend by its Publicity Secretary, Olawale Sadare, the APC accused Governor Makinde of prioritizing luxury over the welfare of the people, arguing that the expenditure reflects a pattern of “financial recklessness and misplaced priorities.”
Sadare noted that critics worldwide had begun to voice their disapproval, echoing earlier concerns raised by the opposition party about the governor’s spending habits. He referenced the controversial 2019 production of exercise books at inflated prices as an example of the administration’s alleged misuse of public funds.
The APC further questioned the rationale behind renovating structures already refurbished by the previous administration under the late Governor Abiola Ajimobi in 2017, describing Makinde’s explanation to the State Assembly as a “failed attempt to justify corruption and impunity.”
The party also raised concerns over what it described as contract splitting in the ongoing upgrade of the Alakia Airport, alleging that despite earlier full payments, fresh budget allocations — including a new N14.3 billion — are being approved without clear justification.
On the proposed purchase of two aircraft to aid aerial surveillance against crime, the APC dismissed the plan as a “conduit pipe” for siphoning public funds. It argued that enhancing collaboration among security agencies and investing in modern technology would be a more effective crime-fighting strategy than acquiring airplanes.
The APC urged Governor Makinde to reconsider the spending spree and redirect resources toward more pressing needs of the state.
