The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State has defended the 2026 state budget, describing it as a strategic fiscal plan designed to strengthen governance, improve security, and drive people-oriented development across the state.
In a statement issued by the party’s Director of Media and Publicity in the state, Steve Otaloro, the APC dismissed criticisms by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), accusing the opposition of misrepresenting key provisions of the budget for political reasons.
The ruling party maintained that the 2026 budget was carefully structured to consolidate economic stability, enhance institutional efficiency, and improve service delivery to residents of the state.
According to the APC, allocations criticised by the opposition, including provisions for the procurement of official vehicles for government operations, were necessary to ensure administrative efficiency and effective discharge of constitutional responsibilities by public officials.
The party argued that governance in a state with growing infrastructural and administrative demands requires adequate logistical and security support, adding that such expenditures should not be interpreted as wasteful spending.
“It is misleading to isolate specific line items in a comprehensive budget while ignoring substantial investments in healthcare, education, infrastructure, agriculture, and social welfare programmes,” the statement said.
The APC further highlighted ongoing efforts by the state government to revitalise primary healthcare centres, expand medical outreach services, upgrade healthcare facilities, recruit medical personnel, and implement public health interventions. The party noted that healthcare development extends beyond pharmaceutical procurement to include infrastructure, human resource development, and improved service accessibility.
On education, the APC pointed to ongoing school renovation projects, teacher training programmes, digital learning initiatives, and the distribution of educational materials across various levels of the state’s education sector. The party described these initiatives as part of a long-term human capital development strategy.
The APC also stressed the need for balanced fiscal planning, noting that government spending must simultaneously address security concerns, administrative operations, social services, and economic growth.
The party said the administration remains mindful of prevailing economic challenges and has continued to implement social intervention programmes, agricultural empowerment schemes, youth development initiatives, and job creation strategies aimed at promoting inclusive growth.
Highlighting achievements of the APC-led administration, the party cited improvements in infrastructure development, rural transformation, investment attraction, and public sector reforms in the state.
While welcoming constructive criticism, the APC accused the opposition of engaging in fear-mongering and attempting to undermine public confidence in government institutions.
The party assured residents that the 2026 budget remains focused on sustaining development and improving living standards across Ondo State, reiterating its commitment to transparency, accountability, and prudent resource management.
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