*HEDA Drags Makinde to EFCC over alleged diversion
*Federal Govt’s N30b cash for Bodija explosion victims intact, says Oyo Govt
The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA) has petitioned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over alleged diversion, misapplication, and criminal breach of trust involving ₦30 billion federal intervention funds released to Oyo State Government following the January 2024 Bodija explosion in Ibadan. According to HEDA, only ₦4.5 billion was applied to relief and compensation for victims, while the remainder of the ₦30 billion was unaccounted for .
HEDA is calling for a thorough investigation into the receipt, management, and utilisation of the funds, citing concerns over corruption, abuse of office, diversion of public funds, criminal breach of trust, and possible money laundering.
The Oyo State Government has acknowledged receipt of the ₦30 billion but claims it was part of a ₦50 billion promise from the federal government, with the remaining ₦20 billion withheld due to demands for inducements. Governor Seyi Makinde’s office has described HEDA’s allegations as “politically motivated” and linked to his recent declaration that he wouldn’t support President Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid.
Victims of the explosion have renewed calls for compensation and support, with some expressing dissatisfaction with the ₦4.2 billion released for reconstruction, compensation, and victim support. The Bodija Estate Residents Association (BERA) has appealed for calm among residents while seeking fair support for all affected persons .