Africa-Press – Nigeria. The governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State, Bola Oyebamiji, has alleged that the newly established Security Trust Fund by the state government may be used to support the re-election bid of Governor Ademola Adeleke.
On Tuesday, the Osun State Government announced that it would unveil the Security Trust Fund as part of efforts to strengthen the security architecture, enhance operational logistics for security agencies, and tackle emerging threats.
Speaking at the launch held at the governor’s office in Abere, the Chairman of Media and Publicity for the initiative, Kunle Adepoju, said the programme reflects the administration’s commitment to safety, stability, and prosperity.
He stated that the initiative would promote collaboration among stakeholders, noting that security is fundamental to development and economic growth across the state.
“Upon it, businesses cannot thrive, communities cannot flourish, and citizens cannot live with confidence. While the government has the primary responsibility to ensure safety, the realities of our time demand a broader, more inclusive approach,” Adepoju said.
He explained that the Trust Fund would serve as a partnership platform, bringing together government, private sector participants, and development partners to provide equipment, training, logistics, and intelligence support for security agencies.
Adepoju also assured that transparency and accountability mechanisms had been put in place, stating that “every contribution will be tracked, and every expenditure will be justified.”
Also speaking, the Secretary of the Implementation Committee, Femi Oyedipe, noted that security funding is capital-intensive and requires joint efforts.
“No government can fund security apparatus alone; funding security is one of the most expensive things the government can embark on,” Oyedipe said, adding that the initiative is structured to encourage public-private partnerships.
However, reacting in a statement on Wednesday through his media coordinator, Adebayo Adedeji, Oyebamiji questioned the timing and intent of the fund.
“We have it on reliable authority that the proposed Osun State Security Trust Fund is intended to raise campaign funds for the re-election of Governor Ademola Adeleke. The intention, contrary to public claims, is not genuinely for security,” Adedeji said.
He alleged that the state government is exploring alternative funding sources amid changes in control of local government allocations and ongoing scrutiny by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.
Adedeji also cited alleged investigations involving ecological and education funds, while urging individuals and corporate organisations to exercise caution.
He advised that those interested in supporting security should directly assist agencies with needed equipment and logistics.
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