Politics
Makinde’s N300 Billion Loan a Presidential Campaign Fund — APC Governorship Aspirant Dr. Abiola Wasiu Raise Alarm
By Joel Ajayi
A leading aspirant for the Oyo State governorship under the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abiola Wasiu, has strongly criticized the Oyo State House of Assembly’s swift approval of a N300 billion loan, calling it a “campaign paycheck” for Governor Seyi Makinde.
Speaking to journalists in Abuja after a condolence visit to the APC National Chairman, who recently lost his mother, Dr. Abiola expressed deep concern over the manner in which the loan was passed. He described the process as unconstitutional, hasty, and disrespectful to the people of Oyo State.
> “Why would a state assembly recall itself from recess just to approve a loan that clearly does not serve the best interest of the people?” he questioned.
Dr. Abiola emphasized that the Assembly members are elected to represent and protect the interests of their constituents, not to rubber-stamp executive decisions without due scrutiny.
He questioned the need for such a massive loan at a time when states are receiving significantly higher allocations from the federal government.
> “Oyo State’s monthly allocations from the federation account have tripled. What then is the justification for borrowing N300 billion?” he asked.
Dr. Abiola urged the people of Oyo State to reject what he termed a “dastardly act” by the Governor. He further alleged that the funds from the loan are intended to fuel Governor Makinde’s rumored 2027 presidential ambition under the PDP platform.
In addition, Dr. Abiola condemned what he described as an “inhumane” action by the Makinde-led administration in the ongoing restructuring of Gbagi Market. According to him, legitimate stall owners are being displaced and replaced by the highest bidders.
> “How can a stall of less than one square meter be leased at N4 million? This is outrageous and must be stopped,” he said.
He added that the Bola Ige International Market, historically known as a haven of commerce and livelihood for traders—especially women—has now become a source of pain due to government policies.
> “Our mothers and fathers who have made a living from selling clothes in that market are now in distress. Why should a Governor turn their source of livelihood into a place of sorrow?” Dr. Abiola lamented.
He called on the people of Oyo State to remain vigilant and to hold their leaders accountable for policies and actions that undermine their welfare.
Politics
Earl Osaro Onaiwu praises Gov. Bala Mohammed’s commitment to PDP’s zoning policy
Earl Osaro Onaiwu, the founding Director-General of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors’ Forum, has praised Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, for demonstrating loyalty and statesmanship by shelving his presidential ambition and aligning with the party’s decision to zone the 2027 presidential ticket to the South.
Onaiwu described Mohammed’s decision as a clear reflection of commitment to party unity, stressing that such loyalty is critical for rebuilding trust and cohesion within the PDP.
“Governor Bala Mohammed has shown that he is a loyal and faithful party man. By respecting the zoning arrangement and supporting a southern candidate, he has demonstrated the spirit of sacrifice and dedication that our party urgently needs,” Onaiwu said.
He further cautioned politicians and “busy bodies” from rival political parties against interfering in the internal affairs of the PDP, urging them to focus on addressing their own internal crises.
“ In 2023, when the ticket was zoned to the North, we all worked together irrespective of differences. Now that the party has zoned the presidency to the South, everyone must rally behind that decision and work collectively for victory,” he added.
Onaiwu also reflected on the PDP’s performance in the 2023 presidential election, stating that the party’s decision to abandon its traditional zoning formula by fielding a northern candidate contributed to its electoral loss.
“ The PDP lost the 2023 presidential election because we jettisoned our zonal arrangement. That mistake must never be repeated if the party truly wants to reclaim power,” he emphasized.
The former PDP Governors’ Forum DG lamented the prolonged divisions within the party, warning that disunity has weakened its strength and electoral fortunes over the years.
He called for immediate reconciliation and unity among party members to reclaim its place as the leading political platform in Nigeria.
“The PDP has been fragmented for too long. It is time to close ranks, put the party first, and rescue Nigeria from the calamity and misrule of the APC,” Onaiwu stressed.
He concluded by expressing optimism that with unity, discipline, and loyalty to party decisions, the PDP can return to power and deliver quality leadership to Nigerians.
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