The All Progressives Congress in Oyo State has branded Governor Seyi Makinde's plea for United Nations intervention in the recent abductions as deeply shameful and shocking.
Wasiu Sadare, the party's publicity secretary, made the declaration in a statement handed to reporters on Tuesday.
Makinde on Monday appealed to the UN to probe the kidnappings after students and teachers abducted in May were freed on Friday. He received the rescued victims on behalf of the state.
But the APC fired back, saying the governor ought to present himself for investigation instead of calling for outside help. The party listed numerous alleged scandals under his administration that demand scrutiny.
Among the issues the APC wants investigated are the suspected misuse of local government money, the killings and abductions in Igangan, and a N7.7 billion surveillance aircraft procurement deal. The party also demanded clarification on a fire-fighting truck contract allegedly tainted by fraud.
The APC further pressed for answers on a N50 billion Bodija explosion relief fund and the Agbowo Shopping Complex deal. Other matters flagged include airport and stadium upgrade schemes that allegedly involved fraudulent practices and various loan controversies.
In his statement, Sadare argued that Makinde's call to the UN was inappropriate given his own record. He noted that while Nigeria wrestles with banditry nationwide, Oyo State has become the hardest hit in the south since the governor took office in 2019.
Sadare claimed recent developments in the past two months had shed light on the security crisis plaguing the state. "Oyo State has a governor who turns everything into politics, even the safety and wellbeing of the people," he said.
The APC spokesman contended that if Makinde felt compelled to seek external intervention, he should demonstrate courage by opening himself to investigations. Sadare pointed to the governor's alleged diversion of council funds and the Igangan violence as matters requiring urgent clarification.
The party also mentioned the possession of illegal weapons by members of Mukaila Auxiliary groups operating in the state. Sadare added that airport upgrades, stadium renovation projects and numerous loan deals under Makinde's government remained shrouded in mystery.
The APC's statement represents an escalation in tensions between the ruling party and the opposition in Oyo State. It reflects growing criticism of Makinde's handling of security matters in the southwestern state.
