Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has expressed dismay over the lack of tangible development across the state’s 18 local government areas despite receiving a staggering N83 billion in allocations from the Federal Government within a year.
Okpebholo made this revelation on Thursday during a courtesy visit by the Acting Chairman of Akoko-Edo Local Government Area, Alabi Oshionogue, councillors, and party leaders to his office in Benin City.
The governor disclosed that President Bola Tinubu’s administration significantly increased monthly allocations to local governments, with each council receiving over N6.5 billion monthly from January to September 2024, and 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,” he said.
Okpebholo lamented that despite the substantial funds, there is no evidence of meaningful development at the grassroots.
He accused local government officials of mismanaging the resources, noting that President Tinubu has worked tirelessly to promote development at the local level.
“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,” he said.
The governor criticized the suspended local government chairmen for neglecting critical sectors such as education while allegedly diverting funds.
“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 added.
The governor emphasised his commitment to ensuring that local governments align with President Tinubu’s vision for grassroots development.
“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 stated.
He also highlighted plans to boost agriculture, pledging collaboration with local councils to drive economic growth.
Acting Chairman of Akoko-Edo Local Government Area, Hon. Alabi Oshionogue, commended the governor efforts to improve governance at the grassroots.
“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.