Ibadan, Oyo State – Monday, June 23, 2025
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State is facing mounting criticism from opposition parties and civic groups over the alleged approval and commencement of a ₦63.5 billion renovation project at the Government House, Agodi, Ibadan. The expenditure, described by critics as excessive and ill-timed, has sparked public debate over government spending priorities in the state.
The All Progressives Congress (APC), the main opposition party in the state, led the charge by questioning the rationale behind committing such a large sum to a government facility amid growing socio-economic challenges affecting education, healthcare, infrastructure, and workers’ welfare.
In a statement released by the APC’s state publicity secretary, the party accused Governor Makinde of misplacing priorities and governing with impunity, especially after previously criticising his predecessor for similar capital expenditures.
“While civil servants groan over unpaid allowances and citizens endure poor healthcare facilities and deplorable roads, the state government is approving billions for the comfort of a few in the corridors of power,” the statement read.
According to documents seen by opposition figures, the ₦63.5 billion project reportedly includes the redesign, reconstruction, and equipping of the Governor’s Lodge, staff quarters, and guest reception areas. Opposition leaders argue that the sum is unreasonable, especially considering the economic situation in the country and rising debts across states.
The development comes just months after the Makinde administration presented a ₦679 billion 2025 budget, which was described by some critics as “ambitious but unrealistic.” Stakeholders are now calling on the state government to disclose full contract details, including bidding processes, contractor identities, and payment structures.
In defense, government officials claim the renovation is necessary for administrative efficiency, security enhancement, and to reflect the dignity of the state’s leadership infrastructure. The Oyo State Commissioner for Information stated that all procurement processes followed due diligence and were captured within the 2025 fiscal plan.
However, civil society organisations and budget monitoring groups have expressed deep concern over the transparency of the project. The Oyo Transparency Forum, a local watchdog group, described the renovation as “a white elephant project,” urging the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate the funding trail and contracts awarded.
Residents in Ibadan and surrounding towns have also voiced their dissatisfaction, lamenting the poor state of inner-city roads, underfunded schools, and long wait times in government hospitals.
“We see these massive figures being approved, but our communities remain underdeveloped. This government needs to listen more to the people,” said Kehinde Adebayo, a youth activist in Oyo town.
As tension builds, members of the Oyo State House of Assembly from both the ruling party and opposition are expected to summon relevant government officials for explanations. There are also calls for an independent audit of the project to ensure that public funds are not being mismanaged under the guise of capital development.
The unfolding controversy presents a critical test for Governor Makinde’s administration, especially as public demand for accountability and prudent fiscal management continues to grow ahead of the next election cycle.