In a controversial move amidst ongoing economic hardship in Nigeria, the Osun State Government has announced plans to spend approximately N6.996 billion on purchasing Toyota Fortuner SUVs (2023 Model) for Governor Ademola Adeleke’s 37 Special Advisers. This decision has sparked significant public debate, particularly given the pressing needs in areas like agriculture and water resources.
The budget allocation for these vehicles exceeds the entire capital expenditure for the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, which is pegged at N5.890 billion for the same year. Each adviser is set to receive a vehicle valued at an average of N189 million.
Criticism has surfaced from citizens who are frustrated by what they perceive as reckless spending. One resident remarked, “After spending N11 billion to buy luxury cars for politicians in 2023 and 2024, Demola still wants to spend an additional N7 billion for politicians in 2025.” Another added, “Buying luxury cars for unproductive politicians who can’t meet the IGR target of the state is a big waste.”
Adebayo Adedeji, a concerned Osun indigene, emphasized that instead of this luxury spending, an investment of N7 billion in a flour mill or similar factory could significantly reduce unemployment in the state. Such investments are seen as more beneficial for the community compared to the acquisition of luxury vehicles for political appointees.
The allocation raises eyebrows amidst severe water scarcity affecting communities like Iree, where residents have reported chronic water shortages. Adekunle Samsudeen, a local resident, expressed frustration about the dire situation, stating that accessing water often requires waking up at dawn to secure a spot at limited sources.
Further compounding concerns, the capital expenditure budgets for key educational institutions in the state are significantly lower than the funds designated for the advisers’ vehicles. For instance, Osun State College of Technology in Esa-Oke has a budget of only N931 million, while Osun State Polytechnic, Iree, has N1.3 billion, and Osun State College of Education in Ila-Orangun has N2.1 billion. The Primary Health Care Development Board has a modest capital budget of N209 million, while UNIOSUN Teaching Hospital is allocated N1.2 billion.
Critics are questioning the priorities of the state government during this time of economic crisis, especially when reports indicate that the local mining sector generated less than N100 million over two years. As the government moves forward with this plan, the implications for public services and community welfare remain to be seen.
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Source: Osun Defender
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