Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has come under heavy criticism after approving a controversial ₦8.2 billion contract for the construction of 32 luxury four-bedroom terrace homes for cabinet members.
The project, to be executed by Abuja-based Cosgrave Investment Ltd., was approved during the State Executive Council’s first meeting in April 2025 despite the fact that only two commissioners had been appointed at the time. Each unit is expected to cost roughly ₦281 million, raising public concern over the government’s priorities in the face of deepening insecurity and economic hardship across the state.
Many residents and civic groups have condemned the move as tone-deaf and wasteful, especially amid reports of unpaid salaries, grounded school buses, underfunded security outfits like Amotekun, and crumbling public infrastructure. Critics argue that the funds could have built over 200 affordable housing units for civil servants or supported critical sectors such as health and education.
Transparency advocates have also raised alarm over the lack of public disclosure regarding the state’s Internally Generated Revenue and expenditure. With mounting frustration, calls are growing for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to probe the state’s finances and hold officials accountable for what many see as blatant financial mismanagement.
Credit: SaharaReporter
