Group accuses Makinde of wasting N2bn on Ibadan summit

The Save Oyo Movement (SOM) has accused Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, of wasting public funds on political activities, alleging that N2 billion was spent on an opposition parties summit held in Ibadan on Saturday.

According to a report by Leadership newspaper, the group also claimed that the governor had spent more than N10 billion from the N30 billion reportedly received from the Federal Government for victims of the January 2024 Ibadan explosion disaster. According to the group, the funds were allegedly diverted toward political interests linked to the 2027 general elections.

In a statement issued on Sunday and signed by its Coordinator, Comrade Akeem Oladiti, SOM called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to investigate the alleged spending.

The group said it was preparing formal petitions to both anti-graft agencies, questioning why funds meant for explosion victims had allegedly not been fully utilized for relief and rehabilitation purposes.

SOM further alleged that over N5 billion was spent on the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Convention held in Ibadan in November 2025, while another N1.5 billion was allegedly used for a coronation ceremony involving three Ibadan High Chiefs who reportedly did not attend.

According to the statement, “Governor Makinde hurriedly organised the political summit held in Ibadan yesterday just to sell his ambition to be vice presidential candidate, and on it, over N2 billion Oyo State money was spent.”

The group maintained that while it does not oppose political ambition, public resources should not be used at the expense of the welfare of residents.

“We are not against the governor or anyone pursuing political ambition, but it must not be at the expense of the welfare of the people of Oyo State,” the statement added.