FG N5bn Palliative: A Benchmark Set by Kwara Governor in Transparency
Kwara Steps Up in Accountability with N2bn Receipt
The Kwara State Government has showcased a laudable move towards transparency by announcing the receipt of N2 billion from the Federal Government’s N5 billion relief fund. This display of accountability in governance is refreshing in an era of financial obscurities.
“Kwara has raised the bar for transparency in governance by not just announcing the funds but by laying out its utilization plan.”
Details of Fund Allocation: A Step Ahead
Rather than keeping citizens in the dark, the Kwara State Government elucidated on the fund’s deployment. Primarily, it will finance rice procurement for the state’s vulnerable populace. With an expected N2 billion balance from the Federal Government, there’s also an anticipation of N1 billion worth of maize (equivalent to 40,000 bags) courtesy of the Central Bank of Nigeria from the national strategic reserve.
Kwara’s Governor Sets a Transparency Precedent
AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, Kwara State’s governor, deserves recognition for being Nigeria’s first governor to publicly acknowledge the palliative fund’s receipt. To further bolster this transparency:
- He sanctioned an immediate rice purchase using the fund.
- Appointed a committee led by Ebun Oluwarotimi Adelesi (Kwara State Police Commissioner) with support from key figures, including:
- Haliru Yahya, Emir of Shonga
- State chairman of Jama’átu Nasrul Islam
- Chairman of the state Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN)
Public Reaction and Commentary
Mutiu Adeyanju, a senior lawyer, remarked:
“While not every vulnerable person might benefit from the palliative, Governor AbdulRazaq’s disclosure epitomizes the transparency with which he governs.”
There’s a rising concern among Nigerians about the reluctance of other governors to disclose similar receipts. Such hesitancy may arise from potential misallocation intentions or other undisclosed reasons.
For instance, in Kogi State, some citizens fear the fund might be misused for the upcoming gubernatorial election, reflecting a lack of confidence in transparency. Concerns have also been raised about funds intended for flood victims, questioning the relief fund’s actual deployment and effectiveness.
Skeptics Speak Out
Emeka Ulunta, an assistant director in Abuja, voiced similar concerns for Imo State, suggesting:
“The Federal Government, in dolling out funds, should partner with states in identifying vulnerable citizens and use various agencies for fund distribution.”
Further adding to the narrative, Juma Adole, a Lagos-based manager, emphasizes:
“The EFCC should monitor the governors. Funds meant for the poor shouldn’t be misused for personal gains.”
Few Governors Step Up
While AbdulRazaq’s transparency stands out, Umo Eno, Akwa Ibom State’s governor, also confirmed receiving three thousand bags of rice from the Federal Government as palliatives. An 18-man committee has been formed to manage the palliative distribution.
Citizens eagerly await more governors to disclose their palliative funds, especially as hardships increase post-subsidy removal.
Repayment of the Palliative Fund
Notably, 48% (approximately N1,920,000,000) of the N4 billion palliative fund is a non-interest loan. Repayment is scheduled over 20 months, with monthly installments of N120,000,000 starting this November.