The Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has firmly dismissed claims that he received ₦50 billion from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and diverted the funds meant for victims of the 2024 Ibadan explosion.
The governor’s response was conveyed in a statement released on Sunday by his Special Adviser on Media, Sulaimon Olanrewaju. The statement was issued in reaction to accusations made by a former Governor of Ekiti State, Ayo Fayose, who alleged that Makinde obtained ₦50 billion from the Federal Government under the guise of supporting victims of the tragic Bodija explosion and failed to apply the funds for their intended purpose. Fayose further claimed he possessed evidence to support his allegation.
Governor Makinde described the claims as completely untrue, misleading, and driven by political motives. He categorically stated that no such ₦50 billion was paid to him by the Federal Government, insisting that what existed was merely a proposal and a promise, not an actual transfer of funds.
According to the statement, documents being circulated to support the allegation only reflect discussions and intentions at the federal level, not the release of money. The governor challenged Fayose to publicly present any credible evidence if, indeed, such proof exists.
“The Federal Government did not disburse ₦50 billion to Governor Makinde. What is on record is a request and an assurance, not a payment. A proposal should not be confused with an actual release of funds,” the statement clarified.
Olanrewaju explained that following the explosion, Governor Makinde travelled to Abuja with a comprehensive report to formally seek federal intervention, especially after President Tinubu did not visit Oyo State in the aftermath of the incident. While the Federal Government initially promised ₦50 billion in support, the amount eventually released was ₦30 billion.
He stressed that a promise does not equate to payment, noting that the remaining ₦20 billion was never released. According to the statement, the balance was allegedly withheld following improper demands linked to its disbursement—demands which the governor reportedly rejected.
The media aide emphasized that the ₦30 billion actually received has been transparently and responsibly utilized. Part of the funds was paid directly to victims as emergency relief, while the rest has been channeled into rebuilding infrastructure and restoring the affected Bodija area.
He added that significant progress has been made on repairs to damaged roads, reconstruction of affected properties is ongoing, and plans are in place to erect a memorial at the explosion site to honour those who lost their lives.
“What is important is not imaginary figures but how the funds that were truly received were used. The impact is visible and verifiable,” the statement said.
Olanrewaju also addressed the frequently mentioned ₦4.5 billion figure, explaining that it refers strictly to direct financial assistance given to victims, including landlords and tenants. He noted that this amount represents roughly 15 percent of the total funds released, with the remaining resources deployed for wider government-led interventions.
“Governor Makinde ensured that victims received immediate support while also committing funds to long-term recovery efforts. Anyone who visits the area can clearly see the reconstruction work underway,” he added.
The statement further suggested that Fayose’s allegations are politically motivated, especially following Governor Makinde’s public declaration that he would not support President Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027. According to Olanrewaju, that decision triggered intensified political attacks against the governor.
Beyond the explosion controversy, the statement also accused a faction allegedly linked to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, of attempting to impose a caretaker committee on the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State. Olanrewaju insisted that such moves would fail, stressing that Makinde remains firmly rooted in his party and enjoys strong public support based on performance.
He concluded by affirming that the governor would not yield to political pressure, intimidation, or misinformation, warning that false narratives may gain temporary attention but ultimately crumble when confronted with facts.
“This issue goes beyond one allegation. It is about protecting democratic principles from fear and coercion. Governor Makinde has made it clear—he will not be part of political manipulation,” the statement concluded.
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