Fresh controversy has emerged over an alleged construction project within the Ondo State Government House complex in Alagbaka, Akure, following the circulation of a viral video purportedly showing ongoing building work at the premises.
The video, widely shared on social media, is alleged to depict a residential building under construction inside the Government House.
A source familiar with the project claimed that the building is intended to serve as the official residence of the Ondo State Commissioner for Finance, Mrs. Omowunmi Isaac, and alleged that she is personally supervising the project. The source further alleged that the structure is located opposite the VIP Lodge within the Government House complex.
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa had, in 2025, flagged off the construction of 32 residential units for members of the State Executive Council in a project valued at over ₦9 billion. However, it was gathered that the building featured in the viral video is allegedly not part of the previously announced housing scheme.
Reacting to the development, the Association for Good Governance Advocacy (ACCA) criticised the alleged project, describing it as a misplaced priority at a time when many public facilities across the state require urgent government attention.
In a statement signed by its Ondo State Coordinator, Mrs. Folakemi Benson, the group questioned the rationale behind the alleged construction of a separate residence for the finance commissioner despite challenges facing public hospitals, schools, roads and other critical infrastructure.
According to the statement, “The viral video allegedly showing the construction of a residential building for the Commissioner for Finance inside the Government House raises serious questions about the priorities of the Aiyedatiwa administration at a time many residents are yet to feel the impact of government policies.”
The group said its concerns were consistent with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent call on governors to avoid spending public funds on projects that do not directly improve the welfare of citizens. It referenced the President’s remarks during a meeting with the Oyo State Council of Obas led by the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Rashidi Ladoja.
ACCA further argued that despite increased allocations from the Federation Account, many state governments, including Ondo, should prioritise investments in infrastructure, healthcare, education and economic development.
The group also called on the state government to clarify whether the Commissioner for Finance is already accommodated under the ongoing 32-unit cabinet housing project.
“If she is, why is another residence allegedly being constructed for her within the Government House instead of the site designated for the cabinet housing project?” the group queried.
It added that beyond the cost of the project, the government should explain whether such expenditure represents a prudent use of public funds and aligns with its responsibility to prioritise projects that deliver lasting benefits to the people.
As of the time of filing this report, the Ondo State Government had not issued any official statement on the alleged project, including its purpose, cost, contractor or source of funding.