Fayose Demands Makinde Return N30 Billion Explosion Fund

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, noted that Governor Makinde admitted receiving the funds but claimed they had not been spent, and therefore the Oyo State Government should return the money to the Federal Government so it can be used for its intended purpose of supporting the explosion victims.

The controversy began when Governor Makinde disclosed that he had received N30 billion from the Federal Government. Fayose criticized the governor for not informing the people of Oyo State about the funds until the issue was publicly raised. He argued that the N30 billion, which has been sitting in a bank since 2024, would have generated significant interest—estimated at N4.5 billion at a 10 % rate. Consequently, Fayose 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, saying he exposed the issue to highlight what he called the hypocrisy of the Oyo State Governor. He pointed out 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 effort to ensure that the Federal Government’s assistance reaches the intended beneficiaries rather than being withheld by the state government.

The Bodija explosion in January 2024 caused significant damage and loss of life, and the Federal Government’s intervention fund was intended to support victims and rebuild the affected area. The dispute over 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.