Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has openly criticized the glaring lack of progress across the state’s 18 local government areas, despite an astronomical N83 billion in allocations from the Federal Government within a year. Where has all the money gone?
During a courtesy visit from the Acting Chairman of Akoko-Edo Local Government Area, Alabi Oshionogue, along with councillors and party leaders in Benin City. He revealed that under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, local government allocations had skyrocketed. From January to September 2024, councils received over N6.5 billion monthly, which later surged to more than N8 billion monthly between October and December.
“Cumulatively, the councils have earned over N83 billion in one year as monthly allocations from the federation account,” Okpebholo remarked, in what can only be described as a scathing indictment of local government mismanagement. For those wondering why the grassroots remain underdeveloped, the governor had an answer, sheer negligence and outright misappropriation of funds by local government officials.
“Before Bola Tinubu’s administration, Edo State’s local governments were receiving N3.5 billion monthly. Today, they receive over N8 billion monthly. Yet, the 18 local government councils have nothing to show for the N83 billion received in the last year.”
In a sharp rebuke, the governor pointed fingers at the suspended local government chairmen, accusing them of prioritizing personal gain over public service.
“These chairmen had the audacity to withdraw N800 million monthly from local government accounts while our schools lacked proper classrooms, teachers, and basic infrastructure. This misconduct is unacceptable,” Okpebholo stated.
So, what’s the excuse this time? Certainly not a lack of resources. The governor, clearly fed up with the excuses, made it clear that his administration would not tolerate further incompetence or sabotage.
“My administration will not tolerate any individual drawing Edo State backward. We are ready to cooperate with local councils that work in line with Mr. President’s plan to deliver the dividends of democracy to the grassroots,” he declared.
Hon. Alabi Oshionogue, the Acting Chairman of Akoko-Edo Local Government Area, appeared to align with the governor’s vision, commending his efforts and pledging support for grassroots development.
“We have agreed to work with your administration because governance is now focused on the grassroots. We will support your vision to ensure Edo State continues to develop,” Oshionogue said.
