The All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Osun State, Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji, has dismissed claims surrounding the financial situation inherited by Governor Ademola Adeleke, insisting that the previous administration left about N15 billion in the state’s coffers.
Oyebamiji made the claim while responding to questions from journalists at the Arise TV Town Hall Meeting in Osun State, where he addressed issues dominating the ongoing governorship campaign.
The APC candidate challenged the narrative that Adeleke inherited an empty treasury, arguing that the current administration has had access to significantly greater financial resources than previous governments in the state.
According to him, Osun received about N450 billion in federal allocations during the 12 years of APC administrations under former governors Rauf Aregbesola and Gboyega Oyetola, while the state has received approximately N650 billion in three and a half years under Adeleke.
“As at today in Osun, 97 per cent of resources go to just two local governments. That is an aberration; actually, it is criminal. In 12 years of APC, Aregbesola and Oyetola, Osun got only N450 billion. In three and a half years of Adeleke, they have collected N650 billion. How does N650 billion match what we see in Osun today?” he said.
Oyebamiji attributed the increase in federal allocations to economic reforms implemented by President Bola Tinubu, particularly the removal of fuel subsidy and the liberalisation of the foreign exchange market.
He commended Tinubu for taking what he described as bold and difficult decisions, noting that the reforms, despite their initial impact on citizens, had increased the resources available to the federal, state and local governments.
However, he questioned whether the increased revenue accruing to Osun had translated into sufficient development across the state.
He said the state’s resources should be reflected in improved infrastructure, social services, economic opportunities and equitable development across its local governments.
Oyebamiji pledged that, if elected governor, his administration would prioritise transparency, accountability and prudent management of public funds.
He also promised to promote economic expansion, support businesses and workers, create opportunities for young people and ensure that communities across Osun receive equitable attention.
The APC candidate maintained that Osun residents deserved a government capable of converting public resources into tangible improvements in their living conditions.
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