APC Chieftain Slams Tinubu’s Support for Governors Mismanaging Funds
Nigeria’s former APC National Vice Chairman, Salihu Lukman, has criticized President Bola Tinubu’s continued allocation of substantial funds to state governments despite evidence of mismanagement and misappropriation by some governors.
On Friday’s edition of Channels Television’s ‘Sunrise Daily,’ Lukman, a member of the opposition African Democratic Congress (ADC), expressed his concerns, stating, “The president has voiced the correct stance, but what actions is he taking to ensure governors use funds for the development of their states?”
Lukman’s comments come amidst reports by the U.S. Embassy in Nigeria describing how governors have spent billions renovating government houses while citizens grapple with economic hardships following the removal of petroleum subsidies.
The APC chieftain further accused the 36 state governors of becoming arrogant and unaccountable to their constituents due to their control over political party structures. This sentiment reflects growing public concern over the misuse of public funds by state executives.
The president’s office is yet to comment on Lukman’s statement. However, the government has consistently maintained the importance of States receiving substantial funds for infrastructure and development.
The misappropriation of public funds is a longstanding issue in Nigeria, with the World Bank estimating that up to 20% of public spending is lost to corruption. International investors and donors have repeatedly urged the Nigerian government to combat this challenge for sustainable economic growth.
As Nigeria’s new president, Tinubu faces the complex task of balancing federal-subsidized development with accountability and transparency at the state level. This story is developing.