Former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose is demanding that Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde return the ₦30 billion intervention fund allocated by the Federal Government for victims of the January 16, 2024 Bodija explosion in Ibadan. This call comes after Governor Makinde admitted that the fund had not yet been disbursed since its receipt, sparking controversy over the management of the ₦50 billion total intervention. Fayose argues that the money should be returned to the Federal Government for proper allocation directly to the intended beneficiaries, suggesting that the Oyo State government has chosen to politicize the welfare of the explosion victims.
Fayose’s spokesperson, Femi Philips, stated on Thursday that it was “funny” that Governor Makinde did not initially disclose the receipt of the ₦30 billion, nor the additional ₦20 billion balance, until the total sum became a subject of public discussion. This lack of transparency, according to Fayose, necessitates the return of the funds.
Why is Governor Makinde being asked to return the ₦30 billion? The primary reason cited by Ayodele Fayose is the failure of Governor Seyi Makinde to disburse the Federal Government’s ₦30 billion intervention fund to the victims of the Ibadan explosion since January 2024. Fayose insists that if the fund cannot be utilized for its intended purpose, it should be returned to the Federal Government.
The former governor further contended that keeping such a substantial sum in a bank for an extended period would have generated significant interest. Fayose calculated that ₦30 billion held for 18 months at an assumed 10 per cent interest rate would have accrued at least ₦4.5 billion. Therefore, he asserts that Governor Makinde should return no less than ₦34.5 billion to the Federal Government.
Fayose emphasized that public office inherently requires transparency and accountability. He stated his intention to expose what he perceives as hypocrisy on the part of the Oyo State governor. He claimed that Makinde selectively revealed details of his meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu while intentionally concealing information regarding the intervention fund designated for the explosion victims.
Fayose pointed out that if Governor Makinde had not publicly disclosed favorable aspects of his meeting with the President, and instead concealed the fact that he requested ₦50 billion for the victims and that this request was granted, there would have been no need for this public discourse.
He cautioned Governor Makinde against politicizing the issue and against using the President’s image to advance his own “inordinate presidential ambition.” Fayose suggested that Makinde should not selectively share information that benefits him while withholding details that would benefit others.
As a fellow Yoruba man, Fayose stated that they would not permit the destruction of the President’s name and image due to Makinde’s personal political aspirations.
This situation highlights a critical debate about fund management and transparency in public administration, particularly concerning disaster relief efforts. The public expects timely and effective disbursement of funds meant to alleviate suffering.
How can victims of the Bodija explosion ensure they receive aid? Victims should stay informed through official government channels and reputable news outlets. They may also need to register or provide necessary documentation to relevant authorities when the disbursement process is officially announced and initiated by the Oyo State Government or designated agencies.
The controversy surrounding the ₦30 billion intervention fund underscores the importance of clear communication and prompt action from government officials in times of crisis. Public trust is paramount, and it is built on consistent accountability and demonstrable commitment to the welfare of citizens.
The political implications of this dispute are significant, potentially impacting inter-party relations and public perception of governance in Oyo State.
Ayodele Fayose’s strong stance reflects a broader call for greater diligence and integrity in the handling of public finances, especially when those funds are intended for vulnerable populations affected by natural disasters.
Governor Makinde’s administration faces the challenge of addressing these allegations directly and providing a clear, transparent account of the fund’s status and future disbursement plans to regain public confidence.
