The Kwara State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has voiced its dismay over the exclusion of Kwara from the federal government’s initiative to subsidize transportation costs by 50% in twenty-two states during the festive season.
Describing the omission as a bad omen, the party questioned Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq’s readiness to defend Kwara’s interests as the Chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF).
In a statement issued by the State Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Olusegun Olusola Adewara, the party expressed regret that Governor Abdulrazaq, despite his position as the NGF Chairman and a member of the ruling APC-led government, did not secure Kwara’s inclusion in the crucial transportation intervention.
The PDP raised concerns about the public benefits accruing to Kwarans under Governor Abdulrazaq’s leadership of the Governors’ Forum.
The statement pointed out that while the Governor had recently received a substantial N9 billion intervention from the federal government, Kwara remained conspicuously absent from the transport subsidy initiative, potentially impacting hundreds of citizens traveling for Christmas and year-end festivities.
The party’s statement suggested that the Governor’s focus on national duties seemed to overshadow local governance, leading to neglect of Kwara’s interests.
It called for an explanation from Governor Abdulrazaq on why part of the recent financial inflow to the state couldn’t be committed to subsidizing transportation for Kwarans returning home for the holidays.
The PDP emphasized the need for Governor Abdulrazaq to prioritize the welfare of the people, especially after the government’s failure to fulfill the promise of providing N10,000 palliatives to all Kwara workers.
The statement noted that other states were providing more substantial financial support to their workers, raising concerns about the Governor’s commitment to the welfare of the people.
The PDP drew a historical parallel, citing the tenure of Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki as Governors’ Forum Chairman, during which Kwara’s interests were prioritized. Under Saraki’s leadership, significant developments, including the Nigeria Integrated Power Project, brought positive transformations to the state.
The PDP concluded its statement by calling on Governor Abdulrazaq to live up to his responsibilities, defend Kwara’s interests, and ensure that the state benefits from federal interventions and initiatives that impact the welfare of its citizens.
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