Adeleke: No Security Votes in Osun Despite Resistance

Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has reiterated his administration’s stance against operating security votes, despite facing internal resistance over the policy.

In a statement by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, Adeleke stated that all security-related spending in the state is strictly carried out through formal budgetary and approval processes, rather than through discretionary or opaque funds.

“Under my watch, Osun does not operate what Nigerians know as security votes. Though I’ve encountered pushback, I’ve remained firm—even at significant cost,” the governor said.

He explained that funding for security operations—such as support to security agencies, handling communal crises, peacebuilding efforts, and Amotekun operations—is done transparently through official memos and regulatory processes.

Governor Adeleke emphasized that Osun has no slush funds and that public finance laws strictly guide the state’s expenditures. He attributed the strict policy to the financial situation he met upon taking office in November 2022, noting that every kobo is now directed toward development.

“Our limited resources from FAAC and internally generated revenue are allocated to critical sectors like infrastructure, agriculture, health, and the payment of salaries, pensions, and debts,” he added.

He also revealed that his government established a special project account to save surplus federal allocations, serving as a financial buffer to ensure project completion.

While expressing optimism about resolving the current seizure of local government funds, Adeleke assured citizens and stakeholders of his administration’s dedication to timely execution of both human development and infrastructure projects.