By Seyifunmi Odunuga
All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain and former gubernatorial aspirant in Oyo State, Engineer Oyedele Hakeem Alao (Allow Alao), has criticized the plan by Governor Seyi Makinde to purchasing an aircraft for security surveillance and tourism, saying it is a “misplaced priority” amidst the state’s growing debt burden.
Alao in a statement on Sunday by his media office, said the proposed aircraft purchase, alongside establishing airstrips in Igbeti and Otu, are both extravagant and unnecessary at this particular time.
The statement read, “It is true that Oyo State faces significant security challenges. However, purchasing a large aircraft is not the solution. The Governor could consider using drones for security surveillance instead.
Drones are not only more cost-effective but also provide advanced surveillance capabilities without the high operational expenses associated with large aircraft, as proposed by the Governor.
“Oyo State’s debt profile has become a source of concern, with external debt service costs reportedly increasing by 143.7% in the first half of 2024. The costs rose from ₦2.61 billion in 2023 to ₦6.36 billion in 2024, marking an increase of ₦3.75 billion.”
Alao questioned the rationale behind such a significant expenditure on an aircraft while critical sectors like education, healthcare, and infrastructure remain underfunded.
The APC chieftain criticized the government’s involvement in the renovation of the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport in Ibadan, stating that the Federal Government had already allocated funds for its upgrade in the national budget.
“This duplication of efforts is wasteful and reflects poor resource management”, he said
Alao urged Governor Makinde to prioritize addressing pressing issues affecting residents rather than embarking on projects that could further strain the state’s finances.
