The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Osun State has criticized the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) for questioning the state government’s recent tractor purchase.
According to DAILY POST, the state government acquired several tractors in August, intended to support agricultural development in Osun State.
In a statement on Sunday, James Bamgbose, Deputy Director of Media and Publicity for the PDP, accused the APC of misunderstanding basic government functions. He suggested that the APC’s criticism reflects its rejection by Osun voters.
The PDP reaffirmed Governor Ademola Adeleke’s commitment to his five-point campaign agenda, asserting that progress is evident across various sectors in the state.
Bamgbose noted, “During their 12 years in office, the APC did not add any new tractors to the state’s inventory and sold off those purchased by the previous PDP administration. Effective democracy relies on constructive criticism from opposition parties, but it’s challenging for those who failed to discuss success, let alone offer advice on achieving it.”
He criticized the APC for not recognizing that its 12-year tenure in Osun State is a lasting example of poor governance and its consequences.
Addressing concerns about budget allocations, Bamgbose clarified that the government is open to supplementary funding if needed. He refuted claims that the N10 billion announced by the governor for agriculture had already been spent, calling the APC’s statement ignorant.
The Osun APC, in a statement by its state Chairman Tajudeen Lawal, had urged residents to scrutinize the state government’s tractor purchase, noting that only 32 tractors were unveiled instead of the 72 announced. The APC also questioned the N10 billion allocated for tractors and farming inputs versus the N3.7 billion budgeted for agriculture in 2024.
Lawal expressed disappointment over the discrepancy in the number of tractors and alleged that the government may have only facilitated a business deal for farmers to purchase tractors on installment, rather than making a direct purchase. He called for clarification on these issues given the budget allocation.