Lucky Aiyedatiwa budget presentation wins Assembly backing as Ondo resolves its crisis and shifts focus to economic consolidation

Lucky Aiyedatiwa budget presentation to the Ondo State House of Assembly on Monday marked a significant moment in the state’s political and economic direction.

Also read: Gombe governor presents N535.69bn 2026 budget

The governor unveiled a N492.8bn appropriation proposal for the 2026 fiscal year, describing it as the Budget of Economic Consolidation.

His plan signals a determined move from recovery to sustained economic strengthening, with N167.5bn allocated for recurrent expenditure and N281.9bn for capital projects.

The Lucky Aiyedatiwa budget arrives just as calm returns to the 26-member Assembly, which recently faced a turbulent standoff involving 12 lawmakers who sought to impeach Speaker Olamide Oladiji.

Following the governor’s intervention, legislators have now recommitted themselves to legislative harmony, a development many consider a powerful step toward stability.

During the presentation, Aiyedatiwa emphasised that the 2026 proposal builds on the 2025 Budget of Recovery, which focused on stabilising key sectors after fiscal strain.

He noted that the new financial plan aims to deepen gains in infrastructure, service delivery, revenue expansion and public financial management.

His tone remained optimistic, stressing that the coming year should deliver stronger prosperity and improved wellbeing for residents.

Speaker Oladiji echoed this outlook, assuring that the Assembly would scrutinise the budget thoroughly and treat it as a blueprint for a better future.

He praised members for resolving their recent disagreements, describing the reconciliation as a reassuring reminder of their commitment to the state’s progress.

Despite earlier accusations from some lawmakers who alleged misappropriation and demanded greater transparency, Oladiji defended himself, insisting he does not handle Assembly funds directly and follows established rules.

He argued that the revolt was driven by personal grievances rather than genuine misconduct.

With tensions now eased and the Lucky Aiyedatiwa budget on the table, both the executive and the legislature appear ready to channel renewed unity into delivering tangible growth.