Daud Olatunji
In a comprehensive investigation conducted by PLATFORM TIMES, it has been revealed that four Southwestern Nigerian states – Ogun, Ondo, Ekiti, and Oyo – have collectively spent a staggering N22,006,444,387.41 to fund their respective state assemblies in the year 2023.
Leading the pack is Ogun state, allocating over N9 billion, followed closely by Ondo with N5.3 billion.
Oyo and Ekiti states spent N4,866,740,697.74 and N2,669,365,444.15, respectively, on their state assemblies.
PLATFORM TIMES obtained the data from openstatesfund portal contains the financial records of all the states in the country between 2018 and 2024.
The detailed breakdown of the allocations reflects the financial commitment each state has made to support legislative activities.
Ogun state, with 26 assembly members, budgeted N9,127,808,366.24 for both the assembly and its commission in 2023.
In comparison, Ondo, with an equal number of lawmakers, allocated N5,342,529,879.28 for similar purposes.
The Oyo State House of Assembly, boasting 33 lawmakers, shared a sum of N4,866,740,697.74 with its commission.
Similarly, the Ekiti State House of Assembly, comprising 26 lawmakers, shared N2,669,365,444.15 alongside the Assembly commission in the same fiscal year.
Despite Ogun state topping the others in expenditure, PLATFORM TIMES gathered that lawmakers in the state are expressing discontent with the funding provided.
Notably, the removal of the former Speaker, Olakunle Oluomo, was reportedly influenced by his failure to secure sufficient funds from the executive.
This financial strain raises concerns about the sustainability of effective governance and legislative functions in these states.
As the Southwestern states grapple with budgetary allocations for their assemblies, questions arise about the transparency and equitable distribution of resources within the political landscape.
The implications of this financial discourse extend beyond the balance sheets, delving into the intricate dynamics of power and governance within the region.
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