Oyo APC youth league stands by Ibrahim Shittu after criticism of Makinde’s borrowing, urging leaders to guarantee his safety before 2027 elections.
The Oyo APC Youth League has faulted Governor Seyi Makinde’s approach to governance, warning that what it described as excessive borrowing could endanger the state’s economic future.
Addressing journalists in Ibadan, State Coordinator Engr. Ayobami Dagilogba and Publicity Secretary Hon. Akanni Muhammed O. said the Oyo APC Youth League would continue to defend the interest of Oyo people while working for party unity and strength.
Dagilogba accused Governor Makinde’s administration of securing large loans without visible impact on citizens’ welfare.
According to him, despite huge borrowing, schools remain outdated, healthcare services are weakening as doctors and nurses leave public hospitals, and farmers lack adequate government support.
“Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration has been marked by the ruling party for neglecting critical sectors in the state.
“Despite his years in office, no modern schools have been built, thereby depriving students of access to quality education at all levels.
“Farmers continue to struggle to access adequate support and resources, while Governor Makinde’s pursuit of his unrealistic presidential ambition has raised serious questions about his priorities.
“The governor’s financial decisions are mortgaging the future of unborn generations,” Dagilogba said.
“Instead of focusing on governance, we see extravagant spending and misplaced priorities.”
He cited the distribution of expensive vehicles to political allies, describing the gesture as “Father Christmas politics” at a time when many residents face infrastructural and social challenges.
The Oyo APC Youth League also expressed solidarity with Hon. Ibrahim Shittu, the lawmaker representing Saki West Constituency, who recently criticized the governor’s borrowing strategy.
The group alleged that Shittu had faced political intimidation for his stance and called for his protection.
“We stand by Hon. Shittu. He spoke for the people of Oyo State, and our party leadership at state and national levels must ensure his safety,” Dagilogba added.
The press briefing also featured a roadmap aimed at strengthening APC in Oyo State.
The Oyo APC Youth League outlined six key priorities:
1. Unity of Purpose – Avoiding factional crises and working together before and after party congresses.
2. Youth Inclusivity – Giving young members more roles in party governance and decision-making.
3. Genuine Reconciliation – Addressing grievances and rebuilding trust among aggrieved members.
4. Protection of Shittu – Ensuring no APC loyalist faces harassment for holding the government accountable.
5. Level Playing Field for 2027 – Guaranteeing free and fair primaries without imposition of candidates.
6. Tinubu Loyalty Walk – A solidarity march on October 4, 2025, to demonstrate loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Dagilogba urged APC stakeholders to reflect on past mistakes and avoid repeating errors that cost the party victories in the past.
He emphasized that unity and reconciliation were non-negotiable if the APC hoped to defeat the ruling PDP in 2027.
“Oyo APC has the structure and grassroots strength to consign PDP into political irrelevance,” he said.
“But that can only happen if we put our house in order.”
The group appealed to President Tinubu, the APC National Working Committee (NWC), and the Oyo State Working Committee (SWC) to take their concerns seriously and act promptly to reposition the party in the state.
According to Dagilogba, the Oyo APC Youth League remains committed to the APC’s success, the progress of Oyo State, and the prosperity of Nigeria.
As of press time, officials from Governor Makinde’s office had not responded to the APCYL’s allegations.
The governor has previously defended his borrowing policy, insisting that loans taken by his administration are tied to infrastructure and development projects aimed at improving Oyo State’s economy.
The press conference ended with a reaffirmation of loyalty to the APC, support for President Tinubu, and determination to secure victory in 2027.
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