BASA Slams Oyo Government’s Ambiguous Spending

“₦63 Billion Renovation Plan Defies Logic” – BASA Slams Oyo Government’s Ambiguous Spending

A prominent voice in Oyo State’s political and civic space, Hon. Bolanle Aminat Sarumi-Aliyu (popularly known as BASA) has fiercely criticized the Oyo State government over its controversial decision to spend ₦63 billion on renovating the Government House. The outspoken public figure described the move as economically illogical and disconnected from the real needs of the people.

In a viral video delivered with passion and clarity, BASA questioned the rationale behind allocating almost the entire 2024 internally generated revenue (IGR) of ₦65.28 billion to a single renovation project. She pointed out that the building in question has remained largely unused for six years, even though both the governor and deputy governor have lived in their official residences throughout their tenure.
“Oyo State’s internally generated revenue for 2024 stood at ₦65.28 billion, yet in one sweep, the government has committed nearly the entire yearly IGR to a single renovation. Let’s reason this—does it make sense?” she asked, adding that such a decision lacks strategic foresight and fails the test of fiscal responsibility.
BASA argued that if she were the governor, she would never approve such spending, especially not on a building that serves limited functional purpose. Rather than dipping into the public treasury, she advocated for an innovative approach that would involve engaging the private sector. She suggested convening a roundtable with leading banks, construction firms, and corporations operating in the state, urging them to take on the responsibility of renovating different wings of the Government House. In recognition of their contributions, these wings could be named after the organizations, a practice that promotes shared ownership and legacy building.
Speaking further, she emphasized the need for a new mindset around public social responsibilities. According to her, development should not be left solely to the government when local businesses and entrepreneurs can be empowered to collaborate meaningfully with the state. She envisioned a model where public-private partnerships go beyond political tenures and instead lay the foundation for sustainable, long-term growth.
BASA then offered a practical alternative to the government’s proposed renovation: using ₦60 billion to empower 20,000 entrepreneurs across the state, with each receiving ₦3 million in support. These beneficiaries, she explained, would be legally registered and brought into the state’s tax net. If each of them contributed just ₦10,000 monthly in taxes, the state would generate an additional ₦200 million monthly, translating to ₦2.4 billion annually. According to her, this kind of investment creates an economic ripple effect, stimulating local economies, reducing poverty, generating jobs, and building community resilience.
“What does a lavishly renovated house do when the common man has nothing?” she asked pointedly. “This is the time to be visionary, innovative, and people-centered. I respectfully nudge His Excellency to review this decision.”
Referencing history, BASA recalled how Governor Makinde, during the administration of late Governor Abiola Ajimobi, had boldly offered candid advice to his predecessor in the interest of a better Oyo State. She expressed hope that Makinde’s government would be equally open to constructive criticism and suggestions aimed at inclusive development.
BASA closed her remarks by reiterating her deep connection to the state and her unwavering belief in building people, not just infrastructure. “This is my sincere advice as BASA, a daughter of the soil and a future governor who believes in inclusive development. Please, Your Excellency, let us build people, not just palaces.”