A group known as the Save Oyo Movement (SOM) has accused Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State of allegedly misusing state funds. The group claims that Governor Makinde has been lavishing state funds on leaders of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) and purchasing campaign vehicles. This accusation comes after the APM called for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to step down in favor of Governor Makinde as its presidential candidate.
The Save Oyo Movement described the APM's call as a result of "drunkenness" and suggested that Governor Makinde is only using the presidential contest to further his own interests. In a statement released on Sunday, signed by its coordinator, Comrade Akeem Oladiti, the SOM alleged that Governor Makinde has been providing huge monthly subventions for the running of APM. This includes the payment of staff salaries and allowances of party officials for the past six months.
The group further accused Governor Makinde of purchasing over 30 Hilux vehicles, which are being distributed to his state coordinators. Some of these vehicles were initially parked at Makinde's Abuja campaign office but have since been moved to unknown destinations. The SOM has called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offenses Commission (ICPC) to investigate the finances of Oyo State.
According to the SOM, the rate at which state funds are allegedly being used to fund Governor Makinde's APM campaign has become alarming. The group believes that the APM's statement calling on President Tinubu to step down was made to justify the monthly disbursement of state funds to the party. The SOM also stated that by February next year, the "festival of looting" of Oyo State's treasury to fund APM's activities will be over.
The Save Oyo Movement expressed concern that Governor Makinde will soon be facing the reality of the end of his tenure as governor and will be looking for a place to hide. The group emphasized the need for the EFCC and ICPC to take action and investigate the alleged misuse of state funds. This, they believe, will help to bring transparency and accountability to the governance of Oyo State.
Governor Makinde's alleged misuse of state funds for APM campaign activities has raised concerns among various stakeholders in the state. The SOM's allegations have added to the growing calls for greater transparency and accountability in the use of public funds. The group's demands for an investigation into the state's finances have been echoed by many who are seeking to ensure that public funds are used for their intended purposes.
The development has also sparked a renewed debate about the relationship between politicians and their use of public funds for campaign activities. The SOM's allegations against Governor Makinde have highlighted the need for clearer guidelines and regulations on the use of public funds for political campaigns. This will help to prevent the misuse of funds and promote transparency in the electoral process.
Key points
- Save Oyo Movement accuses Governor Seyi Makinde of misusing Oyo State funds for APM campaign vehicles and leaders' expenses.
- Group calls for EFCC and ICPC investigation into Oyo State finances.
- Allegations raise concerns about transparency and accountability in the use of public funds.
