By Osun, Nigeria – Governor Ademola Adeleke, the Osun State Governor, stated in a press release on Friday, August 15, that he has faced resistance over his refusal to operate a security votes policy. The release, signed by Olawale Rasheed, the spokesperson, reaffirmed the Governor’s administration’s commitment to sustaining security services solely through the budgetary process. The Governor stated, “Under my watch, we don’t operate security votes in the sense that Nigerians understand it. I face resistance over the policy, but I stick to it even at great cost.”
He further stated, “I am proud to declare that the Osun State government under my watch does not operate a slush fund that our media friends call security votes. Our security needs are met through the approval process. I face resistance over the policy, but I stick to it even at great cost.” The Governor explained that in November 2022, he insisted on this policy due to the pressing developmental challenges faced by Osun. All available funds from FAAC allocations and internal revenues are directed towards essential projects in infrastructure, agriculture, and health.
According to him, his administration prioritises paying workers’ salaries, pensions, and addressing outstanding salary debts while carefully balancing expenditures across human and infrastructure sectors. Adeleke has maintained good records that have been verified by both local and national stakeholders. Adeleke added, “We also target the payment of workers’ emoluments, pensions, and outstanding salary debts. We maintain a delicate balance on expenditure across human and infrastructure sectors, and within less than three years, we have good records widely verified by local and national stakeholders.”
In addition, the Governor expressed optimism regarding a prompt resolution on the isse of seizure of Osun local government funds. He assured the public and other stakeholders that his administration remains dedicated and committed to the timely completion of its human and capital projects.
