Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has denied receiving N50 billion from President Bola Tinubu’s administration for the upgrade of the Ladoke Akintola International Airport in Ibadan. Makinde, who is also a presidential candidate for the Allied Peoples Movement, dismissed the claim as false, directly contradicting statements made by Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike.
Wike had previously alleged that the federal government provided the state with the funds for the airport project. Makinde responded by asserting that the entire cost of the project was covered by Oyo State’s own resources. The dispute highlights ongoing tensions between state and federal authorities over funding and governance.
The disagreement comes amid heightened political activity ahead of the 2027 elections. Wike, a key ally of Tinubu’s ruling party, has faced criticism for alleged election manipulation, with some political groups threatening resistance against any attempt to alter the results.
The debate over the airport funding underscores broader challenges in Nigeria’s political landscape, where claims of financial support and governance responsibilities often fuel controversy.
