Makinde Under Fire: APC Calls for Probe Into N7.7 Billion Aircraft Surveillance Contract

The Oyo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has strongly condemned Governor Seyi Makinde’s call for United Nations intervention in the recent abduction of students and teachers in the state, describing it as “shameful” and “shocking.”

In a statement signed by its Publicity Secretary, Wasiu Sadare, and released on Tuesday, the APC urged the governor to instead submit himself for investigation over several alleged financial improprieties and security lapses under his administration.

The party pointed to issues including the alleged diversion of local government funds, the abduction and brutal killings of residents in Igangan, the controversial ₦7.7 billion surveillance aircraft deal, a fire-fighting truck procurement scam, the N50 billion Bodija explosion relief fund, the Agbowo Shopping Complex contract, upgrades at Ibadan Airport and the stadium, loan scandals, and the alleged possession of lethal weapons by certain individuals.

Governor Makinde had, on Monday, appealed to the UN to investigate the abduction incident after receiving the rescued victims. The students and teachers kidnapped in Oriire Local Government Area in May were freed on Friday.

The APC argued that Makinde’s call was misplaced and politically motivated. The party noted that Nigeria is grappling with widespread banditry and insecurity, but highlighted Oyo State as one of the worst-affected in the southern region since Makinde took office in 2019.

“Events in the last two months have provided answers to many questions being raised,” the statement read, accusing the governor of playing politics with the welfare and security of the people.

The APC challenged Makinde to show courage by facing investigations into the listed matters rather than seeking external probes.

This latest exchange escalates the ongoing political rivalry between the APC and the PDP-led administration in Oyo State, with security and governance becoming major flashpoints.

The ₦7.7 billion aircraft deal, in particular, has faced scrutiny over delays in deployment despite the state’s security challenges.