Fayose slams FG over N39 billion Abuja ICC renovation

A video featuring Isaac Fayose, brother of former Ekiti State Governor Ayo Fayose, has went viral online as he criticizes the recent N39 billion renovation of the International Conference Centre (ICC) in Abuja.

In the footage, Fayose contrasts the current expenditure with the original construction cost in 1991, when General Ibrahim Babangida built the facility for N240 million. His comments, delivered with a mix of frustration and incredulity, highlight concerns about fiscal responsibility and the naming of public infrastructure.

Fayose begins by recounting the history of the ICC, noting, “ICC, International Conference Center was built in 1991. It was built by General Babangida for 240 million naira.” He emphasizes the scale of the original investment, stating, “I repeat 240 million naira from the scratch from the ground, not renovation.” His tone shifts as he addresses the recent renovation, revealing, “Let’s fast forward 2025. They spent over 30 billion to renovate, just innovation 30 billion.”

He questions the justification for the massive expenditure, arguing that the renovation did not alter the structure but merely updated it. “Nobody said they would change the structure,” he notes, suggesting inefficiency. Fayose also critiques the decision to rename the facility after President Bola Tinubu, contrasting it with Babangida’s choice not to name it after himself. “Babangida didn’t name the place after himself because he knows it’s a national monument,” he states, implying a lack of humility in the current administration.

Fayose’s commentary extends to broader economic concerns, linking the renovation cost to inflation and governance issues. “See inflation they go up, every thing is going on,” he laments, suggesting a disconnect between public spending and national priorities.