Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, representing the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), has charged APC senatorial candidate Senator Sharafadeen Alli with deliberately circulating false statements to stir unrest over alleged government land sales. The allegation was detailed in a statement signed by Makinde’s Special Adviser on Media, Dr Sulaimon Olanrewaju, and made public on Tuesday evening.
What are the accusations?
Alli previously warned that certain parcels of state land were being sold to private developers without proper oversight. In a separate communique signed by his campaign director Bisi Oladele, Alli claimed that Makinde was planning to dispose of government properties to private individuals and urged the governor to halt such transactions.
How did Makinde respond?
Makinde rejected the allegations, describing them as an attempt to create tension among Oyo residents. He asserted that every decision taken by his administration complies with the law and that no secret deals have been made. "It is designed to create unnecessary anxiety among residents of Oyo State over a matter on which the government has neither taken any secret decision nor acted outside the law," Makinde said.
What did Alli claim?
Alli’s statement warned that the alleged land sales could jeopardise public interest and called for transparency. He urged the governor to stop allocating government lands to private developers, suggesting that such actions could undermine the state’s development agenda.
What is the broader context?
The dispute emerges ahead of the 2027 general elections, with both parties positioning themselves for the upcoming gubernatorial race in Oyo State. Makinde’s second term is set to conclude in May next year, while Alli seeks the APC ticket for the same election cycle.
Key facts
- The exchange of statements was released on Tuesday evening.
- Makinde’s statement was signed by Dr Sulaimon Olanrewaju, his Special Adviser on Media.
- Alli’s rebuttal was signed by campaign director Bisi Oladele.
- Makinde emphasized that all actions are guided by law and warned against spreading unverified claims.
The rivalry underscores the heightened political tension as candidates vie for influence ahead of the 2027 elections, with land allocation becoming a flashpoint in the debate.