The Omi-Tuntun 3.0 Students’ Army has described Governor Seyi Makinde’s directive that the 33 local government councils in Oyo State should contribute 60 per cent of the cost of the forthcoming local government elections, with the state government covering the remaining 40 per cent, as a reflection of confidence in the financial capacity of local governments under his administration.
According to the group, the directive highlights the financial responsibilities of local councils and their ability to contribute significantly to the electoral process. It noted that assigning the councils 60 per cent of the electoral expenses reflects an expectation that they can shoulder a substantial share of the financial commitment.
The group further stated that the decision underscores the importance of financial responsibility and the capacity of local governments to meet their obligations without placing the entire burden on the state government.
Purchasing Power Must Be Considered
The Omi-Tuntun 3.0 Students’ Army also emphasised the need to consider prevailing economic realities when assessing the amount involved, particularly in relation to the purchasing power of money.
According to the group, arguments that the amount is too much should take into account the rising cost of food, transportation, accommodation, education and other essential goods and services.
With the increasing cost of living, the group maintained that the numerical value of money does not necessarily reflect its actual worth, as an amount that appears substantial on paper may have significantly less purchasing power under prevailing economic conditions.
The value of money should not be judged
its numerical figure alone, but
what it can actually afford under prevailing economic conditions.
The group therefore stressed that discussions about financial commitments must consider both the amount involved and the economic realities that determine its purchasing power.
It added that Makinde’s directive places local government financial responsibility at the centre of the discussion, with the councils expected to bear the larger share of the electoral expenses while the state government covers the remainder.
The Omi-Tuntun 3.0 Students’ Army noted that the arrangement highlights the financial role of the 33 local government councils in Oyo State and their expected contribution to the electoral process.
