Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has denied receiving a ₦570 billion hardship grant from the Federal Government, contrary to President Bola Tinubu’s claim in a recent nationwide broadcast.
In a newsletter signed by the governor, Makinde explained that the funds in question were part of the World Bank-assisted NG-CARES project, a COVID-19 recovery program that reimburses states for expenses incurred in implementing the program.
Makinde clarified that the Federal Government did not give any state money, but rather served as a conduit for World Bank reimbursements to states for already spent funds.
He also noted that the World Bank fund is a loan to states, not a grant, and will need to be repaid.
The governor’s denial comes amid controversies surrounding the nationwide hunger and hardship protests, which turned violent in some northern states.
The Department of State Service (DSS) has announced the arrest and investigation of sponsors of the violent protests, including seven Polish nationals.
