The Ondo State government, under the leadership of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has allocated a total of N6 billion for the construction and furnishing of a new Governor’s Lodge, according to the 2025 state budget. This amount was revealed during a review of the state’s financial plan, which Governor Aiyedatiwa signed into law last week.
The overall budget for 2025 stands at N698.7 billion, reflecting an increase of over N43 billion from the initial proposal submitted to the House of Assembly. The final budget allocates 62.06% (N433 billion) for capital expenditure, while 37.94% (N265 billion) will go towards recurrent expenditure.
Among the key allocations, N6 billion is earmarked for the construction and furnishing of the new Governor’s Lodge and banquet hall. In addition, N1.02 billion is set aside for the construction and furnishing of a new Governor’s Office.
The budget also includes provisions for purchasing vehicles for members of the state House of Assembly. A total of N3 billion is dedicated to this, with N2.16 billion allocated specifically for the purchase of 27 Fortuna Jeeps for the 26 Honorable Members and the Clerk of the House.
Other vehicle purchases include N425 million for five Hilux utility vans for the Ondo State House of Assembly, as well as N170 million for an ambulance for the Assembly’s clinic. N245 million will be spent on purchasing Lexus SUVs for the Speaker, Deputy Speaker, and Majority Leader, while N80 million is set aside for the purchase of a Tacoma vehicle for the Deputy Speaker’s pilot and escort.
Additionally, N1.04 billion is earmarked for the purchase of 13 Toyota Corolla cars, which will be provided to the Clerk, 10 Directors, and 3 Deputy Clerks of the Assembly.
These expenditures have raised concerns about the state’s financial management, particularly in light of ongoing challenges with limited resources. Many have questioned the prioritization of such large-scale infrastructure projects given the state’s reliance on loans and federally allocated funds to meet its obligations.
Moreover, Ondo State continues to face significant infrastructure deficits. Recent data from the National Bureau of Statistics reveals that 66% of households in the state lack access to sanitary facilities, while 51% do not have access to clean drinking water. These figures underscore the urgent need for more focused investment in essential public services such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
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Source: Chronicles Reporters