Security Allocations Take Center Stage as Ondo Gubernatorial Candidates Clash
In a heated debate held just days ahead of the Ondo State governorship election, two leading contenders, Lucky Aiyedatiwa of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Agboola Ajayi of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), engaged in a high-stakes face-off over the allocation and impact of the governor’s monthly security votes.
The event, co-hosted by Channels Television, the Nigeria Civil Society Situation Room, and the UK International Development, provided a unique platform for the candidates to share their vision for Ondo State, with a focus on security as a key concern.
Ajayi took aim at Aiyedatiwa, accusing the governor of receiving a staggering N1.2 billion every month for security purposes. He argued that these substantial funds have done little to improve the state’s security situation, prompting him to demand transparency and accountability.
Ajayi called on the governor to reveal the exact amount allocated to security each month, emphasizing the importance of openness and accountability in governance.
“I challenge the governor to come clean on how much he’s collecting for security if he’s insisting that I’m incorrect about the N1.2 billion figure,” Ajayi said.
Aiyedatiwa, however, swiftly pushed back against Ajayi’s claims, questioning the latter’s credibility when it comes to governing a state.
“My opponent can’t come here and deceive the public. Is he truly a part of the government?” Aiyedatiwa retorted.
Despite the debate, Aiyedatiwa chose not to disclose the exact amount allocated to security each month, citing concerns about national security.
