The Ondo State government, under the leadership of Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has approved N31.1 billion for the construction of a new High Court Complex in Akure, the state capital amidst harsh economic conditions facing residents of the state.
The contract was awarded to Westfield Global Construction Company at a cost of N31.111 billion and it is to be completed in 48 weeks.
This is just as the Aiyedatiwa-led government also awarded N1.2 billion for the renovation and furnishing of the VIP lodge in the Government House in Akure.
The contract was awarded to a company named Oakland Construction Concept and it is expected to be completed in 12 weeks.
Osun Defender gathered that the approval was given at the State Executive Council meeting chaired by the governor.
It was learnt that the Governor had earlier awarded the sum of N775 million for the remodelling of the main gate and perimeter fence of the Government House, Akure, a situation that generated controversy in the state.
One of those who questioned the cost is a lawyer and activist from the state, Kayode Mogbojuri.
Kayode in a post on Facebook had said, “Mr Aiyedatiwa reportedly awarded approximately N800M for the remodelling of main gate and perimeter fence of Government House grounds main gate.
“Aiyedatiwa is becoming financially reckless and Ondo State people need explanations on how the resources for the state is being spent.”
Another Facebook user, Funmilayo Moyosoore had said, “I learnt Aiyedatiwa approved Fence (Wall of Jericho) construction for #774m …….. Who will curtail Lagidigba.”
Meanwhile, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ondo State has accused the governor of spending N2.4 billion on projects it described as wasteful and irrelevant to the people of the state, especially during a time of widespread poverty.
In a statement by PDP spokesman, Kennedy Peretei, the party condemned Aiyedatiwa for approving N1.2 billion for renovating the state’s V.I.P Lodge, asserting that building a new lodge would have cost lesser if corruption is not involved.
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“How many Ondo residents will benefit from a renovated V.I.P Lodge?” Peretei said.
“A governor who neglects the welfare of his people cannot claim they are fortunate to have him in office,” it said.
In response, Ondo Commissioner for Information, Wale Akinlosotu, defended the spending, stating that the approvals were aimed at enhancing the state’s infrastructure.
The Nigerian economy since President Bola Tinubu took over the affairs of the country in May 2023 has grappled with a series of complex challenges, with the prices of food rising almost on a daily basis.
Hunger and poverty have increased across the country, including in Ondo State, as a result of government policies such as fuel subsidy removal, among others.
Azeez Adeleke is a Mass Communication graduate with years of experience in news writing and reporting. In the last few years, he has honed his writing, editing, and reporting skills, focusing on delivering clear, engaging, and accurate reportage.
