Former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, has claimed that Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde received ₦50 billion from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu following the deadly Ibadan explosion.
The explosion, which occurred on January 16, 2024, at house number 8, Aderinola Street, Ibadan, killed at least five people and injured 78 others. The incident affected 335 persons, damaged 58 houses, 16 businesses, several religious institutions, three schools, and the University College Hospital. The explosion was caused by a water gel-type explosive triggered by an electric spark in a house rented by Malian national Mahmoud Camara, who was involved in storing explosives.
On January 22, 2024, Governor Makinde presented a report on the incident to President Tinubu at Aso Rock.
In an interview on TVC, Fayose alleged that the president gave Makinde ₦50 billion to address the aftermath of the disaster. He said, “Governor Makinde received ₦50 billion in support after the Ibadan explosion. He never informed Nigerians. The President gave him the resources to manage the situation effectively.”
Fayose added, “Makinde only told the public about his meeting with the President regarding organizing the APC in Oyo State. He did not disclose the assistance provided to him and the people of Oyo State.”
When asked about proof, Fayose stated, “I am not here to tell stories I cannot support. I will not display government transfer documents on television. I must act responsibly as a former governor.”
This allegation follows Makinde’s revelation that he refused a request by President Tinubu to help coordinate the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State, citing his loyalty to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He said Tinubu personally appealed to him, but he declined, insisting he could not act against his party.
The ₦50 billion claim has sparked debate, with questions on whether official clarification is needed and whether the funds were used transparently for public benefit.
