Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has clarified that his administration does not operate “security votes” in the manner commonly perceived by Nigerians, emphasising that all security-related expenditures are executed through transparent budgetary processes and strict compliance with public finance laws.
In a statement issued on Friday by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, the governor reaffirmed his commitment to sustaining security services in Osun State without resorting to what he described as a “slush fund.”
Addressing public perceptions of security votes, Adeleke stated, “Osun has no slush fund which many Nigerians regard as ‘security votes.’ Our expenditure on security services is undertaken within the confines of the public finance law and regulations.”
He explained that funds allocated for security are expended through due process, involving the raising of memos and adherence to statutory government payment procedures.
These expenditures include operational support for security agencies, funding for operations to resolve communal crises, support for peace-building activities, and financing for the state’s security outfit, Amotekun.
“I am proud to declare that the Osun State government under my watch does not operate a slush fund that our media friends call security votes,” Adeleke asserted.
“Our security needs are met through the approval process. I face resistance over this policy, but I stick to it even at great cost.”
The governor attributed his stance to the dire financial situation he inherited in November 2022, emphasising that Osun’s limited resources must be judiciously allocated to address developmental challenges.
Adeleke highlighted his administration’s prudent financial management, noting that funds from Federal Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) disbursements and internally generated revenue are channelled into key sectors such as infrastructure, agriculture, and health.
He also underscored efforts to clear outstanding salary debts, pay workers’ emoluments, and address pension obligations while maintaining a balance between human and capital development projects.
“Within less than three years, we have good records widely verified by local and national stakeholders,” he said.
The governor revealed that his administration established a special project account to save unexpected FAAC inflows, describing it as a “shock absorber” to ensure the completion of ongoing infrastructure projects.
This initiative, he noted, reflects his government’s foresight in managing Osun’s finances amidst economic challenges.
Adeleke also addressed the ongoing issue of the seizure of local government funds, expressing optimism for an early resolution and reassuring residents that his administration remains focused on completing its human and capital projects on schedule.