Over the past several years, Southeast Nigeria has become a glaring example of financial mismanagement and lack of accountability among its leaders. Since after COVID, the governors of the Southeast have received trillions of naira from various channels, including federal and local government allocations, foreign loans, grants, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) intervention funds, Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) allocations, ecological funds, security votes, and more. Despite these substantial financial inflows, the tangible benefits for the average citizen remain virtually nonexistent.
These staggering figures highlight the substantial financial resources available to south east state governments. If we consider the average monthly disbursement over four years, the total funds received by state governments would exceed N3 trillion annually. For states specifically, such as Imo, Enugu, Ebonyi, Anambra, and Abia, this translates into a significantly staggering amount of money, amounting to multi trillions of naira cumulatively over several years.
The amount of money funneled into the coffers of Southeast governors is staggering. According to data from the Federation Accounts Allocation Committee (FAAC), in January 2019 alone, state governments received a total of N178.04 billion, while local governments were allocated N133.83 billion. This is just a fraction of what these states have received over the years. For instance, in 2021, Imo State reported total government expenditure of N134 billion. Yet, despite these huge allocations, the development on the ground is shockingly minimal. Roads remain dilapidated, healthcare facilities are grossly underfunded, and educational institutions are in a state of disrepair.
Moreover, these governors have not just mismanaged state resources; many have blatantly used state funds to settle personal debts, fund lavish lifestyles, and maintain a life of luxury at the expense of their constituents. Reports reveal that some governors, who were financially constrained before taking office, now have access to private jets and have never flown commercial since their tenure began. They have transformed public resources into personal property, using the state’s funds for private jet travel across Nigeria for themselves and their families. Some have even converted government aircraft into private jets, blatantly abusing their power and public trust.
While they splurge on luxury, the governors boast about minor, often irrelevant projects that do little to alleviate the chronic poverty and infrastructure decay faced by their people. Funds meant for public welfare are hoarded and reserved for future political campaigns, turning public service into a self-serving venture. The practice of continuously applying for new loans, often under false pretenses and without any clear plan for their utilization, further burdens the states with unnecessary debt, which will be borne by the citizens for generations to come.
This financial recklessness extends beyond governors to other political representatives in the region. Senators and federal representatives from the Southeast also receive substantial funds for constituency projects and other initiatives. However, much like the governors, these representatives have often diverted these funds for personal gain, rendering them silent and inactive in the legislative arena for the duration of their terms.
The people of the Southeast must recognize that remaining passive in the face of such gross mismanagement is not only irresponsible but dangerous. It is foolhardy to allow one individual to squander resources meant for millions without any tangible development or accountability. As citizens, we must rise and demand a full accounting of every naira allocated to our states. We must question the whereabouts of the trillions of naira entrusted to our governors and other representatives. Why are there no significant infrastructure projects, no robust healthcare systems, no improved educational facilities, and no meaningful efforts toward poverty alleviation?
According to reports from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), some former governors are already under investigation for embezzling vast amounts of public funds. This is not an isolated incident but part of a broader pattern of corruption and mismanagement that spans across the regions governments.
The Southeast must not remain silent in the face of such blatant corruption and waste. It is time for a revolution of accountability. The people must demand transparency, responsible governance, and meaningful development. We cannot afford to let our leaders continue to exploit their positions for personal gain while the vast majority of citizens languish in poverty and hardship. We must challenge our leaders, hold them accountable, and ensure that the wealth of our region is used for the benefit of all, not just a privileged few.
This is a call to action for every concerned citizen of the Southeast. The future of our region depends on our willingness to stand up and demand better governance. We must refuse to be complicit in the misuse of our resources and demand that our leaders are held to the highest standards of integrity and accountability. The time for passive acceptance is over. It’s time to act.
Chima Nnadi-Oforgu
Duruebube Uzi na Abosi
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