The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has blown the whistle on what it calls a “calculated scheme of impoverishment” in Ondo State, alleging that relief materials meant for citizens’ welfare are being converted into campaign materials by the incumbent administration.
In an explosive statement issued in Akure on Saturday, the SDP Publicity Secretary, Oyeniyi Iwakun, detailed how palliatives earmarked for the entire state are allegedly being rebranded with APC and Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s insignia for campaign purposes.
“We have uncovered a deliberate and systematic hoarding of palliatives meant to alleviate our people’s suffering. These materials are being repackaged as campaign souvenirs in a desperate bid to buy votes,” Iwakun revealed. He described the action as “not just morally reprehensible but a calculated strategy to weaponize poverty for political gains.”
The SDP’s allegations come amid growing concerns over the administration’s spending patterns, particularly the reported expenditure of ₦10,000 per person on rented crowds at political rallies. According to Iwakun, these rallies, which drain billions from state coffers, barely attract genuine supporters despite the monetary inducements.
“The administration’s priorities have become dangerously skewed,” Iwakun stated. “While Akure, once Nigeria’s cleanest state capital, now drowns in filth, with heaps of refuse dotting Arakale Road, Oja Oba, and NEPA area, the government lavishes state resources on political jamborees.”
The opposition party’s revelations paint a picture of systematic degradation of governance in the state, where basic services have allegedly been sacrificed for political expedience. The SDP claims this approach is designed to create a dependent and vulnerable electorate that can be easily manipulated during the upcoming governorship election.
“Rather than addressing the excruciating economic hardship facing our people, Governor Aiyedatiwa has chosen to stockpile relief materials for political advantage,” Iwakun asserted. “This is a new low in governance, where citizens’ suffering has become a political tool.”
When reached for comment, state government officials had not responded to these allegations at the time of filing this report. However, the accusations have ignited fresh debates about governance priorities and resource management in Ondo State.
The SDP’s revelation comes at a critical juncture as Ondo State prepares for its gubernatorial election, raising questions about the intersection of welfare programs and political campaigns in the state.
