Politics

Ondo Governor Aiyedatiwa Awards N31Billion Contract To Build New High Court Complex, N1.2Billion To Renovate Govt House VIP Lodge Amid Economic Hardship

Published

1 year ago

October 21, 2024

The approval was given at the State Executive Council meeting chaired by the governor, a document seen by SaharaReporters showed.

Ondo state government led by Lucky Aiyedatiwa has approved N31.1 billion for the construction of a new High Court Complex in Akure, the state capital amidst harsh economic conditions facing residents of the state.

The approval was given at the State Executive Council meeting chaired by the governor, a document seen by Ekwutosblog showed.

The contract was awarded to Westfield Global Construction Company at a cost of N31.111 billion and it is to be completed in 48 weeks.

In another document, the Aiyedatiwa-led government also awarded N1.2 billion for the renovation and furnishing of the VIP lodge in the Government House in Akure.

The contract was awarded to a company named Oakland Construction Concept and it is expected to be completed in 12 weeks.

Earlier, Ekwutosblog reported how the award of N775 million for the remodeling of main gate and perimeter fence of the Government House in Akure by the governor generated controversy within the state.

One of those who questioned the cost is a lawyer and activist from the state, Kayode Mogbojuri.

Kayode in a post on Facebook had said, “Mr. Aiyedatiwa reportedly awarded approximately N800M for the remodeling of main gate and perimeter fence of Government House grounds main gate.

“Aiyedatiwa is becoming financially reckless and Ondo State people need explanations on how the resources for the state is being spent.”

Another Facebook user, Funmilayo Moyosoore had said, “I learnt Aiyedatiwa approved Fence (Wall of Jericho) construction for #774m …….. Who will curtail Lagidigba.”

In April 2024, SaharaReporters exclusively reported how the governor budgeted N5 billion for the renovation of Day Care Centre/Creche.

Days after the report, the state government, through the Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget, Mr Emmanuel Igbasan, said the figure listed was a typographical error.

Meanwhile, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ondo State has accused the governor of spending N2.4 billion on projects it described as wasteful and irrelevant to the people of the state, especially during a time of widespread poverty.

In a statement by PDP spokesman, Kennedy Peretei, the party condemned Aiyedatiwa for approving N1.2 billion for renovating the state’s V.I.P Lodge, asserting that building a new lodge would have cost lesser if corruption is not involved.

“How many Ondo residents will benefit from a renovated V.I.P Lodge?” Peretei said.

“A governor who neglects the welfare of his people cannot claim they are fortunate to have him in office,” it said.

In response, Ondo Commissioner for Information, Wale Akinlosotu, defended the spending, stating that the approvals were aimed at enhancing the state’s infrastructure.

The Nigerian economy since President Bola Tinubu took over the affairs of the country in May 2023 has grappled with a series of complex challenges, with the prices of food rising almost on a daily basis.

Hunger and poverty have increased across the country, including in Ondo State, as a result of government policies such as fuel subsidy removal, among others.

Politics

David Mark Holds Secret Meeting With PRP Leaders as ADC Crisis Deepens

Published

6 days ago

April 12, 2026

Ekwutos Blog

The embattled National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress, David Mark, on Friday held a closed-door meeting with leaders of the Peoples Redemption Party in Abuja. The private consultation is seen as a fresh round of political moves as the ADC continues to battle a lingering leadership crisis and growing internal divisions.

Top figures from both parties were said to be present at the meeting, including PRP National Chairman Hakeem Baba-Ahmed and senior ADC officials. The development is already drawing attention as opposition parties continue realignments ahead of the 2027 political season, with many watching closely for possible alliances and next steps in the party crisis.

Politics

“ADC is a Holy Party, Cannot be used to Scam Nigerians Again” – Hon Success Opara tells David Mark

Published

7 days ago

April 11, 2026

Ekwutos Blog

ADC Party in Turmoil: Hon Success Opara Slams Leadership, Warns Against Scamming Nigerians

Abuja, Nigeria – The African Democratic Congress (ADC) is facing internal strife as Hon Success Opara, a prominent party official, has warned against attempts to use the party to deceive Nigerians. Opara specifically criticized the leadership of David Mark, stating that the party cannot be used to scam citizens again.

“ADC holy Party cannot be used to scam Nigerians again,” Opara said, emphasizing that those forming coalitions are hindering the party’s growth and denying youths opportunities to thrive.

“Those who are forming coalition don’t want to give the youths the chance to strive in the party,” she added.

Opara’s statement highlights the deepening divisions within the ADC, with concerns over leadership and the party’s direction.

Politics

2027: Bala declares aspirants over 55 years disqualified in ADC

Published

7 days ago

April 11, 2026

Ekwutos Blog

The factional National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Nafiu Bala Gombe, has announced that the party under his leadership will bar individuals above the age of 55 from contesting for political positions.

Gombe made the disclosure during an interview with BBC Hausa, where he outlined a vision centred on generational change and greater youth participation in politics.

“The African Democratic Congress (ADC) is a party that belongs to all Nigerians. What we are doing now is to ensure the party moves forward properly.

“We have decided that we will give the youths a real chance. The time has come for young people to take the lead in politics.

“If you are over 55 years old, you are not going to contest for positions in the ADC under our leadership.

“We want to bring in fresh blood, new ideas, and energy from the youth. Nigeria’s future depends on the young generation.

“The old ways have not worked well for the country. We need to open the door wide for youths to participate fully as candidates, leaders, and decision-makers,” he said.