The Ondo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has called for the immediate removal of the Commissioner for Finance, Omowumi Isaac, over allegations of budget padding in the 2025 Appropriation Bill.
The opposition party accused Isaac of including excessive allocations in the budget, such as an N11.5 billion security vote, N250 million for honorariums and sitting allowances, and N230 million for a Toyota Prado SUV.
The party’s Publicity Secretary, Kennedy Peretei, stated, “The Ondo State 2025 Appropriation Act contains some scandalous items… that have been the subject of public agitation in the last two weeks.”
The PDP warned Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa that failure to dismiss Isaac would prompt further action, as the alleged budget padding raises concerns about financial accountability.
“If the governor fails to relieve the commissioner of her duties… steps will be taken to prove that what is at stake is the people’s funds,” the party stated.
Additionally, the PDP questioned the silence of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), saying, “Whatever happened to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission team that arrived in the state in the wake of the 2025 budget scandal is inexplicable.”
The opposition emphasized that such financial mismanagement should not be tolerated, especially in a state facing infrastructural deficits and challenges in healthcare and education.
However, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has dismissed the allegations, defending Isaac’s role in the government.
The party’s Director of Media and Publicity, Steve Otaloro, stated, “The assertions presented by the PDP are not only misleading but also demonstrate a troubling lack of understanding of the budgetary process.”
He clarified that the Ministry of Budget and Planning, not the Finance Ministry, is responsible for preparing the state budget.
The APC insisted that the controversial budget items were justified and part of a framework designed to enhance security and governance.
Otaloro urged the PDP to focus on factual discussions rather than “sensationalism.”
The allegations have sparked widespread debate, with citizens calling for greater transparency in the government’s financial dealings.
While the PDP demands accountability, the APC maintains that the accusations are politically motivated.
As the controversy unfolds, all eyes remain on Governor Aiyedatiwa and the EFCC to determine the next course of action.
