Kehinde Fajobi
Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has expressed frustration over the absence of tangible development across the state’s 18 local government areas despite receiving ₦83 billion in federal allocations over the past year.
The governor made the remarks on Thursday during a visit by the Acting Chairman of Akoko-Edo Local Government Area, Alabi Oshionogue, councillors, and party leaders in Benin City.
Okpebholo revealed that local governments had received significant monthly increases in their allocations under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
From January to September 2024, each council received over ₦6.5 billion per month, with amounts exceeding ₦8 billion between October and December.
“Cumulatively, the councils have earned over ₦83 billion in one year as monthly allocations from the federation account,” Okpebholo stated.
Despite the increased funds, the governor expressed disappointment over the lack of visible progress at the grassroots level.
He blamed the local government officials for mismanaging the resources, highlighting President Tinubu’s commitment to promoting local development.
“Before Bola Tinubu’s administration, Edo State’s local governments were receiving N3.5 billion monthly. Today, they receive over ₦8 billion monthly.
Yet, the 18 local government councils have nothing to show for the ₦83 billion received in the last year,” Okpebholo said.
The governor further criticised the suspended local government chairmen for neglecting vital sectors such as education, while allegedly misappropriating funds.
“These chairmen had the audacity to withdraw ₦800 million monthly from local government accounts while our schools lacked proper classrooms, teachers, and basic infrastructure. This misconduct is unacceptable,” he added.
Okpebholo reiterated his commitment to aligning local government operations with President Tinubu’s development goals.
“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 affirmed.
He also stressed plans to collaborate with local councils to boost agriculture and drive economic growth.
In his response, Acting Chairman of Akoko-Edo Local Government, Hon. Alabi Oshionogue, commended the governor’s efforts.
“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.