The House of Representatives candidate for Dekina/Bassa in the 2023 elections, Usman Okai Austin, has criticised the Kogi State government’s inability to develop the state despite increased revenue from the federation account since President Bola Tinubu assumed office.
Okai noted growing resentment among Kogites due to perceived government insensitivity to their plight amid harsh economic conditions.
He attributed the people’s hardship to the removal of fuel subsidies and the subsequent surge in inflation.
“Despite substantial revenue, citizens question the government’s spending,” Okai stated in a statement sent to journalists.
“There’s no visible development in Kogi, unlike neighbouring states with similar allocations,” Okai stated.
He called for transparency and accountability, stating the need to hold the government responsible for the mismanagement of public funds.
Okai also highlighted the plight of local government workers who receive partial salaries despite the state’s alleged financial windfall.
Comparing the current situation with the previous administration, Okai expressed concern over the state’s lack of progress under Governor Bello’s leadership. He urged for a change in governance to address the people’s needs.