In a lively pre-election debate, Ondo State’s Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa (APC) and his main challenger, Agboola Ajayi (PDP), clashed over the transparency and allocation of the governor’s monthly security vote. Hosted by Channels Television, the debate offered each candidate a platform to outline their policies ahead of the upcoming November 16 election.
Ajayi accused Aiyedatiwa of collecting N1.2 billion monthly for security but failing to show meaningful improvements in the state’s safety. He challenged the governor to disclose the exact monthly figure, emphasizing the need for transparency in handling public funds. “I challenge the governor to make public how much he’s collecting if he says I am lying about the N1.2 billion figure,” Ajayi said.
Governor Aiyedatiwa dismissed the accusation, calling it baseless and defending his handling of the security vote. He, however, declined to reveal the specific amount, citing security concerns, and questioned Ajayi’s authority to make such claims. “My brother can’t come here and be lying. Is he in government?” he responded.
The debate highlighted the candidates’ differing views on transparency and accountability in state governance, with each presenting their vision for Ondo’s future.
