“Federal Government Did Not Give Oyo State Any Money” – Governor Makinde Denies Receiving ₦570bn Hardship Grant

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has disputed recent claims that his state received part of the ₦570 billion hardship grant announced by the Federal Government. In a newsletter shared on social media, Makinde clarified that Oyo State had only been reimbursed ₦6.8 billion for investments made in the NG-CARES program, rather than receiving any grant funds as part of the federal disbursement.

The clarification follows a nationwide address by President Bola Tinubu, who stated that the federal government allocated ₦570 billion to all 36 states to support citizens amid ongoing protests against economic hardship. Tinubu also noted significant fiscal revenue increases and high costs for fuel imports.

This development comes amidst ongoing protests against hunger and hardship, which have seen both peaceful demonstrations and violent incidents in various states, including the display of a Russian flag by some protesters. The Department of State Services (DSS) has launched investigations into the violence and announced the arrest of several individuals, including foreign nationals, linked to the unrest.