PDP faults Ondo 2026 budget, labels it insensitive, elitist

By Boye Oyeyemi –

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ondo State has faulted the state’s 2026 Appropriation Law, describing it as elitist and insensitive to the needs of ordinary citizens.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by the party’s Director of Media and Public Communications, Wándé T. Àjàyí, the PDP criticised what it described as uneven spending priorities in the budget. The party pointed to large allocations for luxury vehicles compared to relatively small provisions for healthcare and education.

According to the PDP, figures in the approved budget indicate plans to spend about ₦23.3 billion on vehicles and transport-related items. This amount includes ₦2.1 billion for the purchase of 27 Sport Utility Vehicles for members of the House of Assembly and the clerk.

The party compared this allocation with the ₦69 million reportedly set aside for drugs and medical supplies, arguing that the sum is far too small for a state with an estimated population of over 5.3 million people. “This is not a budgeting error; it is a statement of values,” the PDP stated, adding that prioritising luxury vehicles over medicines and educational materials suggests a government that is out of touch with the needs of the people.

The opposition further noted that these spending decisions are being made at a time of widespread poverty, rising unemployment, and declining social services. It therefore called for an urgent review of the budget to redirect funds to more critical sectors.

In response, the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state defended the budget, describing it as a strategic financial plan designed to strengthen governance, improve security, and promote development. In a statement by its Director of Media and Publicity, Steve Otaloro, the APC accused the PDP of misrepresenting the budget.

The party maintained that the allocation for official vehicles is necessary for effective administration and the performance of constitutional duties.

It added that the 2026 budget includes significant provisions for healthcare, education, infrastructure, and social welfare, assuring residents that the government remains committed to responsible spending, transparency, and improving living standards across the state.