The Oyo State Government has accused Senior Advocate of Nigeria Mutalubi Ojo Adebayo of distorting facts and making unsubstantiated allegations against Governor Seyi Makinde and his administration.
The government’s response was contained in a statement issued by the governor’s Special Adviser on Media, Dr Sulaimon Olanrewaju, titled “Oyo Govt to Mr Mutalubi Ojo Adebayo: Lies Have Short Legs.”
According to the statement, Adebayo is entitled to support any political candidate of his choice but should not use misinformation or personal attacks to advance his political position.
The government accused the lawyer of making inflammatory comments about the administration’s performance, including its handling of road projects, local government funding, education, healthcare and public infrastructure.
Government Defends Its Record
On the Ogbere–Amuloko–Akanran–Ogun State border road, the government said the project formed part of a World Bank-supported rural access corridor subject to procurement requirements, environmental assessments and phased implementation.
It also defended arrangements involving state and local government funding for strategic roads, arguing that joint financing can be necessary for projects beyond the capacity of individual councils.
On education, the government cited improvements it said had been recorded in examination performance, school enrolment, infrastructure and teachers’ welfare. It also defended its approach to healthcare, stadium rehabilitation and public lighting.
The administration maintained that projects were prioritised according to public interest, technical feasibility, engineering assessments and budgetary considerations.
Political Disagreement Intensifies
The statement accused Adebayo of using his criticism to undermine the administration and its political interests ahead of the 2027 elections.
However, the government’s response represents its own account of the disputed issues and does not independently resolve the allegations raised by the lawyer.
Adebayo’s specific claims should be assessed against available project records, budgets, procurement documents and other verifiable evidence.
The exchange highlights the growing political contest in Oyo State ahead of the next electoral cycle, with the administration defending its record and critics scrutinising its performance.
Ultimately, the credibility of both sides will depend on the evidence supporting their respective positions. Public debate over governance is essential, but it is best served by verifiable facts, transparent records and substantive responses to criticism.