Makinde Accuses Tinubu of Withholding NLNG Dividends

Seyi Makinde, the Governor of Oyo State and presidential candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement, alleged that President Bola Tinubu's administration is withholding ₦250 billion in dividends from Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG) that should be distributed to states. Makinde made this claim in a statement released by his Special Adviser on Media, Sulaimon Olanrewaju, and during the 2027 Budget Stakeholders’ Consultative Engagement at the University of Ibadan.

The presidency, represented by spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, dismissed Makinde's allegations as false and politically motivated. In response, Makinde emphasized that as the Vice Chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum, he possesses evidence to substantiate his claims.

He pointed out that a consultant engaged by the NGF identified a shortfall of about ₦9 trillion owed to states and local governments. Makinde urged the presidency to clarify how NLNG dividends have been disbursed, particularly the $3 billion received under the current administration, and to address the core issue rather than resorting to personal attacks.