By Seyifunmi Odunuga
A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former gubernatorial aspirant in Oyo State, Engineer Oyedele Hakeem Alao (Allow Alao), has called on Governor Seyi Makinde to provide a detailed explanation regarding the N30 billion reportedly released by the Federal Government to states, including Oyo, to combat food shortages and alleviate the hardships faced by residents.
Alao, in a statement from his Media Office, noted that despite the confirmation by Senate President Godswill Akpabio that N30 billion was allocated to each state to address food insecurity and economic difficulties, the people of Oyo State have yet to see any tangible improvement in their living conditions.
He condemned Governor Makinde for what he described as his “misplaced priorities” and for abandoning initiatives that could have had a direct and positive impact on the general populace. 
Alao accused the governor of focusing on the needs of a privileged few rather than addressing the widespread economic challenges affecting the majority of residents.
“The hardship in Oyo State is stark. Recent data shows that food inflation in the South-West has risen by over 20 per cent this year, pushing the prices of staples like rice and beans beyond the reach of many families.
“Nearly 40 per cent of residents of Oyo State live below the national poverty line, struggling daily with food insecurity and growing economic difficulties.
“Food insecurity remains a critical challenge, with many unable to meet their daily nutritional needs”, he stated.
He emphasised the need for clarity on how the N30 billion intended to support food security has been utilized.
“The people of Oyo State are suffering, and they deserve responsive leadership that prioritises their welfare and not projects that benefit a select few.”
Speaking further, Alao criticised Governor Makinde for still maintaining the 500-meter land-use restriction on both sides of the Ibadan Circular Road project.
He pointed out that although the governor initially claimed that the restriction had been reduced, the actual 500-meter limit is still enforced, causing significant hardship for those living and working along the corridor due to forced displacement and loss of livelihoods.
“A responsive and responsible leader must seek practical ways to alleviate the suffering of the people, not exacerbate their hardships. The current challenges in Oyo State call for transparent governance and urgent actions that prioritize the welfare of all residents over narrow interests”, Alao said.
