Despite August denial, protesters march in Ibadan over loan controversy.
By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
IBADAN, NIGERIA – September 8, 2025:
Members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) youth wing in Oyo State on Monday staged a peaceful walk in Ibadan, protesting Governor Seyi Makinde’s handling of the controversial ₦300 billion loan.
Carrying banners emblazoned with the APC logo and the inscription “300 Billion Loan Scam,” the youths marched through major streets of Ibadan, chanting solidarity songs and demanding accountability from the state government.
The Merit Newspaper reported that the demonstration came against the backdrop of an ongoing political dispute. In August, the APC in Oyo State accused Governor Makinde of pushing through a fresh ₦300 billion loan approval during the House of Assembly’s recess, describing the move as a “scam” and a ploy to mortgage the future of the state.
The Merit Newspaper also recalled that the Oyo State Government had swiftly denied the allegation, explaining that no fresh loan had been secured. Instead, officials clarified that the Assembly approved ₦149 billion for debt refinancing and ₦151 billion for infrastructure and contractor financing. The government insisted the opposition was spreading “falsehoods” to mislead the public.
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Speaking during Monday’s walk, an APC youth leader declared:
“Our banners carry the truth: ₦300 billion loan scam. Governor Makinde should explain why Oyo State’s debt profile keeps rising. We want transparency and openness. This is not just about politics, it is about the future of our generation.”
Another participant added:
“This is a peaceful protest to awaken the government. We are youths of APC, but beyond politics, we are sons and daughters of Oyo State. We don’t want hidden debts that will cripple our tomorrow.”
While APC leaders had earlier warned of possible street actions if the government failed to provide clarity on the loan issue, Monday’s protest signaled the first organized demonstration since the controversy broke out.
As of press time, the Oyo State Government had yet to officially react to the APC youths’ protest.
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Analysts note that the walk may intensify political pressure on Governor Makinde, especially as loan transparency and debt management remain sensitive issues among residents of Oyo State.
