By Iroyin Yoruba Television
ABUJA, Nigeria — October 23, 2026
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has criticised the economic and fiscal management of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, questioning the Federal Government’s budget implementation and calling for greater clarity over its spending plans.
Makinde made the remarks during a South-West town hall meeting in Akure, Ondo State, where political stakeholders and supporters from across the region gathered to discuss governance and the country’s future ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The governor, who is also the presidential candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), argued that Nigerians needed a clearer explanation of the Federal Government’s budget position. He questioned whether the administration was operating under the 2023, 2024 or 2026 budget, presenting the issue as a concern about fiscal planning and accountability.
His comments place budget execution at the centre of the emerging political debate ahead of the next general election. Budgets are intended to communicate government priorities, authorise expenditure and provide a basis for measuring whether public funds are being used as planned.
Makinde contrasted the federal situation with what he described as improvements in budget performance in Oyo State since he became governor. He said the state had raised budget performance from approximately 28 to 30 per cent to more than 70 per cent during his administration.
These figures represent Makinde’s account of his government’s performance. A detailed, independent comparison of the relevant budget documents and implementation reports would be needed to assess the figures and compare them fairly with federal performance.
The governor also criticised what he described as nepotism and a political culture that prioritises regional interests over national development. He argued that public leadership should deliver benefits across the country rather than favouring selected individuals, political allies or geographical areas.
Makinde used the gathering to present the APM as an alternative political platform, urging citizens to assess candidates on their proposed policies and records in public office. He also encouraged eligible Nigerians to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards and participate in the electoral process.
The meeting comes as political parties and prospective candidates position themselves ahead of the 2027 elections. Economic management, the cost of living, public spending and the distribution of development projects are likely to remain important subjects in the campaign debate.
However, criticism from a political opponent does not by itself establish that the Federal Government has breached budget rules or mismanaged public funds. The specific claims about budget implementation and regional favouritism require examination against official records and responses from the relevant authorities.
The Federal Government’s explanation of its current budget framework, expenditure performance and fiscal priorities would help clarify the issues raised at the meeting.
As the election approaches, the debate underscores the importance of transparent public accounts and verifiable performance records. Voters will need reliable information from both federal and state governments to assess competing claims and judge which policies are most likely to improve public welfare.
For now, Makinde’s remarks add another critical voice to the political discussion over Nigeria’s economic direction. Whether the arguments translate into broader electoral support will depend on the evidence presented, the alternatives offered by political parties and the choices made by voters.