By Confidence Oluwafemi
The administration of Governor Ademola Adeleke would arguably have faced serious fiscal challenges without increased federal allocations and the controversial rise in tuition fees across state-owned tertiary institutions, particularly the University of Ilesa.
A budget deficit occurs when government expenditure exceeds revenue generation. In such situations, governments often struggle to meet financial obligations unless additional revenue sources are identified. Critics of the current administration argue that the Adeleke government has relied heavily on increased school fees rather than implementing broader economic strategies capable of boosting Osun State’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).
Many residents have questioned how the administration would have sustained its spending profile without federal support under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the steep increase in tuition fees imposed on students of state-owned institutions.
According to reports, several parents have withdrawn their children from the University of Ilesa following the hike in tuition, while some students are said to have dropped out due to financial difficulties.
One of the most debated aspects of the fee increment is the alleged rise in tuition for medical students from about ₦200,000 during the administration of former Governor Adegboyega Oyetola to approximately ₦1.4 million under the current government. Critics describe the increase as excessive and burdensome for ordinary families.
Supporters of the previous administration insist that Osun State’s economy can only grow through policies that attract investors, strengthen agriculture, expand infrastructure and improve business opportunities. They argue that such measures would naturally increase IGR without placing additional financial pressure on students and parents.
The debate over the state’s economic direction intensified after comments credited to former House of Representatives member, Wole Oke, who criticised the governor’s style of governance. Supporters of the Adeleke administration, however, maintain that the government inherited structural economic challenges and has continued to implement people-oriented projects across the state.
Backers of former Governor Oyetola also argue that his administration improved Osun’s revenue profile despite the economic setbacks caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the End SARS protests.
In a recent interview, former Commissioner for Works, Remi Omowaiye, reportedly claimed that the current administration receives significantly higher federal allocations than the previous government. He argued that the state should have recorded stronger economic growth with such resources.
Another issue generating controversy is the removal of the former rector of Osun State Polytechnic, Iree. Some residents alleged that the decision was politically motivated, though the government has continued to defend its appointments and administrative decisions.
Concerns have also been raised about staffing shortages in public healthcare facilities across Osun State. Critics claim that many hospitals and primary healthcare centres remain understaffed, leading to delays in medical attention for patients, including pregnant women.
In the education sector, opposition voices have alleged a shortage of teachers in public schools. Reference has been made to complaints from some residents who claimed that certain schools lack subject teachers, including Physics instructors.
The political debate ahead of the 2026 governorship election has further heightened tensions between supporters of the ruling administration and opposition figures. Critics insist that Governor Adeleke has not fulfilled many of his campaign promises, while his supporters argue that his government has delivered visible infrastructure projects and social programmes since assuming office in November 2022.
Opposition supporters are now rallying behind Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji, popularly known as AMBO, whom they describe as experienced in finance and public administration.
Governor Adeleke’s critics also continue to revisit campaign promises made during the 2022 election season, including commitments to attract foreign investors to Osun State. They argue that the state is yet to witness the scale of investment earlier promised by the governor.
As preparations intensify for the August 15, 2026 governorship election, political rhetoric is expected to increase from both the ruling party and the opposition.
While critics accuse the administration of relying on “anti-people policies,” supporters of the governor insist that the administration remains focused on development and grassroots governance.
Ultimately, the decision on the future of Osun State will rest with the electorate, who will assess the performance of the current administration against the promises and alternatives being presented by opposition parties.
Confidence Oluwafemi is a member of the Digital Media Committee of the APC Osun 2026 Governorship Campaign Council from Iwo Local Government Area.
