Maroof Asudemade

The delivery of two Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance aircraft to Oyo State marks one of the most ambitious security investments by any Nigerian state in recent years. Given the security challenges along the Oyo–Kwara axis and the traumatic abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government, few would argue against the need to strengthen intelligence gathering.
The real issue, however, is not whether Oyo State should invest in surveillance technology. It is whether the people deserve a full explanation of how almost ₦8 billion of public funds was spent.

Public concern has arisen because unofficial comparisons suggest that Diamond DA42 aircraft sell for far less than what Oyo State reportedly paid. Those comparisons, however, overlook an important distinction. The aircraft acquired by Oyo are specialised ISR platforms rather than ordinary civilian aircraft. Their final cost may legitimately include sophisticated surveillance equipment, training, spare parts, maintenance and technical support. That distinction matters.

Nevertheless, transparency remains essential. Since taxpayers financed the purchase, the government should publish the procurement details, including whether the aircraft were brand new or refurbished, the scope of equipment supplied, the maintenance package and the basis upon which the contract price was determined.

Such disclosure would either justify the expenditure or expose any irregularities. In either case, the public benefits. There is also the broader question of priorities. While improved security is indispensable for economic development, many rural communities continue to struggle with inadequate schools, poor healthcare facilities, bad roads and insufficient security personnel. Citizens are therefore justified in asking whether similar urgency is being applied to these pressing needs.

Security and grassroots development should not compete against each other. A secure society without quality education, healthcare and infrastructure remains underdeveloped, just as development cannot flourish where insecurity prevails.

Ultimately, accountability is not opposition to government. It is a cornerstone of democratic governance. If the aircraft procurement was prudent and competitively priced, transparency will strengthen public confidence. If not, the public has every right to demand answers.

In governance, trust is built not merely by spending public funds but by openly explaining how and why they were spent.