The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and opposition parties have criticised state governors for mismanaging increased federal allocations, totalling N5.22 trillion in 2024, accusing them of neglecting infrastructure and agriculture.
President Bola Tinubu, during a New Year meeting with the Nigeria Governors Forum, emphasised governors’ pivotal role in Nigeria’s development, noting that states receive 65% of federal revenue.
Despite this, experts and the NLC allege minimal impact on citizens’ welfare.
NLC Deputy President Prof. Theophilus Ndubuaku decried rising poverty levels and unpaid wages, claiming funds derived from subsidy removal are not benefiting the public.
The Lagos NLC Chair, Funmi Sessi, called for removing governors’ immunity to enhance accountability, accusing many of substandard performance.
Opposition parties in Bauchi, Ogun, Bayelsa, and other states echoed similar sentiments, highlighting deteriorating infrastructure, lack of transparency, and unmet campaign promises despite increased allocations.
Economists remain divided on the justification of these funds, sparking calls for stricter oversight by state assemblies.
