- … also to strategic security, people-oriented development
The All Progressives Congress (APC), has recommited itself to responsible governance, strategic security, and people-oriented development in Ondo State.
Besides, it assured the people of the state of its firm commitment to transparency, accountability, and prudent resource management.
It renewed these commitments on Tuesday in a statement by its Director, Media & Publicity, Mr Steve Otaloro, in reaction to a critique by the opposition Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, of the state’s 2026 budget.
Otaloro said, “While opposition parties reserve the democratic right to critique government policies, it is imperative to correct deliberate misrepresentations, contextual distortions, and politically motivated narratives designed to mislead the public.
“The 2026 Budget of Ondo State is a carefully structured fiscal blueprint crafted to consolidate economic stability, strengthen institutional efficiency, and guarantee the safety and effective delivery of governance to the good people of Ondo State. Contrary to the sensational claims made by the PDP, the allocations referenced reflect strategic administrative necessities rather than extravagance or elitism.
“Governance, particularly in a state with expanding infrastructural and administrative demands, requires functional mobility, operational efficiency, and adequate security provisions for public officials who discharge constitutional responsibilities across diverse and sometimes challenging terrains.
“The procurement of official vehicles is not a luxury indulgence but a pragmatic investment in ensuring that legislative and executive functions are carried out without logistical impediments, thereby enhancing service delivery to constituents across the state.
“It is both disingenuous and intellectually dishonest to isolate single line items within a comprehensive budget framework while ignoring the extensive and well-documented investments being made in healthcare, education, infrastructure, agriculture, and social welfare programmes.
“The APC-led administration has consistently demonstrated measurable commitment to revitalising primary healthcare centres, expanding medical outreach programmes, upgrading educational facilities, and implementing sustainable development projects that directly impact citizens’ welfare.
“Furthermore, the opposition’s attempt to reduce healthcare investment to a narrow interpretation of pharmaceutical procurement grossly ignores ongoing capital healthcare projects, personnel recruitment, facility upgrades, public health interventions, and medical infrastructure expansion that collectively constitute the government’s holistic healthcare delivery strategy.
“Effective healthcare systems extend far beyond drug purchases and must be evaluated within the broader spectrum of infrastructure, human capital development, and service accessibility.
“The Ondo State Government under the APC has equally sustained significant investments in education through school renovation projects, teacher capacity development programmes, digital learning initiatives, and the provision of educational support materials across various levels. These initiatives reflect a deliberate and long-term commitment to human capital development rather than short-term populist expenditure.
“It is important to remind the public that governance demands balanced fiscal planning that simultaneously addresses security, administrative functionality, social services, and economic growth. Attempts to portray legitimate operational expenditures as moral failings represent political theatrics rather than constructive policy engagement.
“The APC administration remains deeply sensitive to the economic realities faced by citizens and continues to implement targeted social intervention programmes, agricultural empowerment schemes, youth development initiatives, and employment creation strategies designed to cushion economic challenges and stimulate inclusive growth.
“Ondo State has witnessed remarkable progress in infrastructure expansion, rural development, investment attraction, and public sector reforms under APC leadership. These achievements are products of deliberate, strategic, and accountable governance- not the reckless fiscal indiscipline that characterised previous administrations of the opposition.
“While the APC welcomes constructive criticism that advances public interest, we reject fear-mongering narratives and exaggerated distortions aimed at undermining public confidence in government institutions. The 2026 Budget remains a progressive financial roadmap designed to sustain development momentum and improve the quality of life for all residents of Ondo State.
“The APC assures the people of Ondo State that this administration remains firmly committed to transparency, accountability, prudent resource management, and people-oriented governance. We encourage citizens to continue to support policies and programmes that guarantee long-term prosperity and sustainable development across the state.”
