Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has criticised the reported decision to delay the disbursement of Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG) dividends to states until after the 2027 general elections, warning that the move could disrupt infrastructure development and economic planning across the country.

Makinde made the remarks on Friday during the 2027 budget stakeholders’ consultative engagement in Ibadan, where he said the expected funds would have helped states implement projects designed to expand their economies and improve public infrastructure.

The governor, who is also the presidential candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), claimed that each state was expected to receive ₦250 billion from the NLNG dividends. He expressed concern that the funds would reportedly not be released until after the next general election.

According to Makinde, Oyo State had already identified projects that could benefit from the expected allocation, but the delay had created uncertainty over their implementation.

“Each state was supposed to get ₦250 billion. We had already identified projects that would expand Oyo State’s economy,” Makinde said.

He questioned the rationale for postponing the payment, arguing that public funds intended to support development should not be delayed for electoral reasons.

“But they have now said the money will not be paid until after the election. Is the election more important than the people of Nigeria?” he asked.

Makinde maintained that delaying the funds could affect the ability of state governments to plan budgets, execute infrastructure projects and pursue economic initiatives intended to improve living conditions.

His comments also raised questions about the timing and distribution arrangements for the reported NLNG dividend payments, particularly whether the proposed allocations had been formally approved and the specific conditions governing their release.

However, the claim that every state is entitled to ₦250 billion and that payments have been postponed until after the elections was not independently established in the information provided. Confirmation from the relevant federal authorities or NLNG would be necessary to clarify the basis of the allocation, the total amount involved and the reason for the reported delay.

The controversy comes as state governments prepare their 2027 budgets and assess the resources available for infrastructure, public services and economic development ahead of the next election cycle.