Former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose has called on Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde to return the N30 billion intervention fund released by the Federal Government for the January 2024 Bodija explosion in Ibadan. Fayose’s spokesperson, Femi Philips, stated that since Governor Makinde admitted to receiving the funds but claimed not to have spent them, the Oyo State Government should return the money to the Federal Government. This would enable the funds to be utilized for the intended purpose of supporting the explosion victims.
The controversy surrounding the intervention fund began when Governor Makinde disclosed that he had received N30 billion from the Federal Government. However, Fayose criticized the governor for not informing the people of Oyo State about the funds until he brought it to public attention. Fayose argued that the N30 billion, which has been in a bank since 2024, would have generated significant interest, estimated at N4.5 billion at a 10% interest rate. Therefore, he insisted that Governor Makinde should return at least N34.5 billion to the Federal Government.
Fayose emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability in public office, stating that he exposed the issue to highlight the hypocrisy of the Oyo State Governor. He noted that Governor Makinde’s decision to disclose certain details of a meeting with the President while concealing others was inappropriate. Fayose’s intervention is seen as an attempt to ensure that the Federal Government’s assistance reaches the intended beneficiaries, rather than being withheld by the state government.
The Bodija explosion, which occurred in January 2024, resulted in significant damage and loss of life. The Federal Government’s intervention fund was intended to support the victims and rebuild the affected area. The controversy surrounding the funds has raised questions about the management of disaster relief efforts and the transparency of government operations. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen whether the Oyo State Government will return the funds to the Federal Government, as requested by Fayose.