The Centre for Anti-Corruption and Open Leadership, CACOL, has issued a stern warning to state governors, urging them not to divert the approved N180 billion in palliative funds provided by the federal government.
Tola Oresanwo, the Director of Administration and Programmes at CACOL, expressed concern in a statement released on Saturday.
It should be noted that the National Economic Council recently granted approval for the disbursement of N180 billion as palliatives to mitigate the impact of the nationwide removal of fuel subsidies.
In response, CACOL emphasized that the funds must be conscientiously utilized for the wellbeing of the masses, who have been heavily affected by the economic hardship.
The civil society organization further urged governors to refrain from distributing the palliatives to their friends, families, and political allies, and instead prioritize the needs of the people.
CACOL stressed that the palliatives should be felt by the general populace across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
“We also implore the state governors to ensure transparent and fair distribution of the funds, both in cash and kind,” the organization stated.
“They must ensure that these palliatives do not end up in the hands of a privileged few within their states. The people of each state should experience the positive impact of these relief measures, regardless of its scale.”
