Osun Tractor Procurement: APC, PDP Engage in Heated Debate

Tensions rise as APC and PDP clash over the Osun government’s decision to procure tractors, with both parties trading accusations.

The Osun State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has criticized the All Progressives Congress (APC) opposition for raising doubts about the state government’s purchase of tractors.

According to OBASANJONEWS, the state government acquired a few tractors in August that have been earmarked for rejuvenating agriculture within their jurisdiction.

According to a statement released on Sunday and signed by James Bamgbose, the Deputy Director of Media and Publicity for the party, the comments made by APC show a lack of understanding regarding fundamental principles of governance.

The Osun APC’s response was seen by the party as confirmation that their rejection by the electorate in Osun was justified.

The Osun PDP asserted that Governor Ademola Adeleke remains dedicated to achieving his 5-point campaign plan, and emphasized that the progress seen across various sectors in the state is evidence of this commitment.

Despite the PDP administration before them purchasing tractors, there were no new additions to the state inventory during their 12 years of mismanaging resources; instead, they sold off all previously acquired equipment.

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When opposition parties are engaged in constructive criticism, democracy operates at its peak. They hold the ruling party accountable for delivering good governance while ensuring that they remain on their toes. It is almost impossible for a failed politician to offer advice or critique successful policies since they lack credibility and experience in governing effectively.

The fact that the APC has not recognized its 12-year rule in the state as a prime example of poor governance and how it impacted the citizens for generations to come is deeply concerning.

Mr. Olabisi should be informed that the government is willing to consider a supplementary budget for any remaining amount stated by the governor on their inquiry about budgetary provision.

He stated that merely declaring by the Governor that N10bn would be allocated to agriculture does not imply it has already been expended, as he mistakenly asserted in his signed statement.

In a statement signed by their state Chairman, Tajudeen Lawal, the Osun APC has advised residents of the state to exercise caution regarding the tractors that Governor Adeleke’s administration acquired.

The party conveyed its dissatisfaction about the state government revealing only 32 tractors instead of the promised number of 72.

The state government’s injection of N10 billion into the procurement of tractors and farming inputs was questioned by the party, considering that it surpasses the total allocation for agriculture sector in 2024 which stands at N3.7 billion.

It’s disappointing that yesterday only 31 tractors were revealed, despite the governor and his deceptive devices touting there would be 72. The governor’s unacceptable behavior not only betrayed citizens’ trust but also diminished public regard for both him and his position.

The farmers, who were already misled about the actual number of tractors purchased, were further dismayed to learn that they had to wait longer for the completion of “all necessary administrative procedures” before receiving them. This news left them shocked and disheartened.

The somber disclosure intensified existing doubt that the state government did not legitimately buy the tractors, but simply enabled a commercial deal wherein Osun farmers could procure them through hire-purchase and instalment payments.

He stated that considering only N3.7 billion allocated to Agriculture in the 2024 budget, there is a requirement for the state government to provide clarification on the rampant speculation due to current circumstances.