The Socialist Party of Nigeria (SPN), Oyo State chapter, has expressed strong disapproval over the recent approval of N77 billion by the state executive council for the renovation of the Government House and upgrade of the state airport.
In a statement released Thursday in Ibadan by SPN Secretary, Comrade Ayodeji Adigun, the party described the decision as a clear case of misplaced priorities, particularly in a state still grappling with pressing socio-economic challenges.
The party argued that the Seyi Makinde-led administration should channel such a substantial sum into essential sectors such as public education, healthcare, and agriculture, which it said remain underfunded and in need of urgent revitalization.
“This is not just a questionable allocation of resources, but a display of insensitivity at a time when many residents are struggling with inflation, unemployment, and decaying public services,” the statement read.
The SPN called for a redirection of public funds toward a mass-oriented works programme aimed at improving public infrastructure, boosting food production, and creating sustainable jobs. The party emphasized that such projects should be managed under democratic control by elected representatives of workers and communities to ensure transparency and equitable development.
While acknowledging the importance of modern infrastructure, the SPN insisted that the wellbeing of the majority of citizens should take precedence over elite-centric projects.
The N77 billion approval reportedly includes over N63 billion for the Government House overhaul and N14 billion for the airport upgrade. The state government is yet to issue an official response to the criticism.
