Former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, has called on Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, to refund the N30 billion intervention fund released by the Federal Government for victims of the January 16, 2024 explosion in Ibadan, insisting that the money should be returned with interest.
Fayose made the demand during a recent interview on TVC, where he raised concerns over the handling of funds approved by the Federal Government in response to the devastating explosion that rocked Old Bodija and surrounding communities in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.
According to Fayose, a total of N50 billion was allegedly released by the Federal Government to address the aftermath of the explosion. He claimed that N30 billion of the intervention fund did not pass through the official coffers of the Oyo State Government, questioning the transparency and accountability surrounding its management.
The former Ekiti governor accused the Oyo State Government of failing to provide clear explanations on how the funds were handled and utilised for the benefit of victims affected by the disaster. He argued that public funds meant for emergency relief must be fully accounted for, adding that any unutilised or improperly handled funds should be refunded to the Federal Government.
Fayose further urged relevant anti-corruption and oversight agencies to investigate the claims, stressing that Nigerians deserve clarity on the disbursement and utilisation of disaster relief funds. He maintained that accountability remains critical, especially in matters involving public trust and humanitarian interventions.
The Oyo State Government has previously stated that funds released by the Federal Government for the Bodija explosion were kept in a dedicated account and remain untouched, while also highlighting billions of naira spent from the state’s own resources on reconstruction and compensation for victims. However, Fayose’s comments have reignited public debate over the management of the intervention fund.