The #EndBadGovernance protests in Nigeria are making waves, but there’s a crucial aspect missing from the conversation.
While many are focusing their anger on President Tinubu and the federal government, we’re overlooking a major part of the problem: our state governors, senators, and other officials.
From January to July 2024, the federal government has allocated significant funds to the states.
Here’s a brief look at some allocations:
– Delta State: N102.79 billion in June alone.
– Akwa Ibom State: N70.01 billion in June.
– Rivers State: N69.73 billion in June.
– Ekiti State: N16.95 billion in June.
– Lagos State: N253.92 billion from January to July.
– Kano State: N152.34 billion from January to July.
– Kaduna State: N120.44 billion from January to July.
– Plateau State: N88.90 billion from January to July.
– FCT (Abuja): N56.34 billion from January to July.
– Oyo State: N123.76 billion from January to July.
– Abia State: N95.05 billion from January to July.
– Imo State: N78.12 billion from January to July.
These figures show that states are getting hefty amounts, yet many are failing to deliver tangible results. Instead of holding our governors accountable, we’re fixated on President Tinubu.
Governors are supposed to use these funds to improve infrastructure, healthcare, and education. However, many states are still struggling with poor roads, inadequate healthcare, and failing schools. Some governors even have the audacity to join protests while their own states suffer from mismanagement.
Our senators and House members receive massive amounts for constituency projects, yet many of these projects are either poorly executed or not completed at all. Despite this, there’s little scrutiny or accountability for how these funds are used.
Corruption isn’t limited to politicians. In the civil service, nepotism and bribery often block qualified Nigerians from getting jobs or services. Money meant for projects often gets embezzled, leaving citizens with nothing.
As we protest against the federal government, let’s not forget to hold state governors, senators, and civil servants accountable. The problems we face are systemic and involve every level of government. If we truly want change, we need to demand transparency and accountability from all our leaders, not just the president.
Let’s push for a comprehensive approach to governance reform and not let our anger be misdirected. It’s time to tackle the root of the problem at every level of government.
Odewale Adesoye (A.K.A. Green Man) is saying God bless Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Kudos to the writer.
I’ve always maintained that the onus doesn’t lie with the president alone cos he even gives extra funds to Governors & house of reps members & senators collects constituency projects funds & also award contracts to themselves, but we don’t see or hear anything about it & we rather go after the president. Maybe the protests should be done at each constituencies & to those receiving funds & pocketing it.