Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Guardian Nigeria
Published on 2024-02-25 01:34:16
The current economic challenges facing Nigerians have been attributed to some state governors and local council chairmen by Tony Okocha, the Rivers State All Progressives Congress (APC) Caretaker Committee Chairman. Okocha alleges that despite the unprecedented amount of money distributed by the Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led Federal Government to the governors and local council chairmen, some of them have criminally amassed wealth for themselves at the expense of their people. He questions why Nigerians are quick to blame the President for the economic woes when it is the actions of these governors that have contributed to the situation.
Drawing from his experience in the cabinet of Rivers State between 2012 and 2015, Okocha highlights that during the subsidy regime, the state never received up to N7 billion in a good month, leaving the state coffers empty. He criticizes the governors for using state resources to sponsor frivolous activities, such as a recent protest organized by women’s groups under the Women Unite for Sim. Okocha specifically calls out the Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, urging him to think creatively to improve the lives of the people and to reduce reliance on the sponsorship of street protests.
The focus on the irresponsible use of state resources by some governors and local council chairmen highlights a larger issue of governance and accountability in Nigeria. Okocha’s allegations shed light on how corruption and mismanagement at the state and local levels can impact the broader economic well-being of the country.
The call for governors to prioritize the welfare of their people and to act in the best interest of their constituents is a reminder of the importance of leadership in driving positive change. Okocha’s message resonates with the need for transparency, accountability, and good governance at all levels of government to address the economic challenges facing Nigerians.
As Nigerians navigate through these tough economic times, it becomes crucial for elected officials to prioritize the needs of the people, make responsible decisions with public resources, and work towards sustainable development. The allegations made by Okocha serve as a wake-up call for politicians at the state and local levels to reassess their priorities and to refocus on serving the people who have entrusted them with leadership roles.
Overall, the issues raised by Tony Okocha bring attention to the critical role of state governors and local council chairmen in shaping the economic landscape of Nigeria. By holding these officials accountable for their actions and decisions, there is potential for positive change and progress in addressing the current economic woes facing the country.
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