Not way back, within the wake of meals and {economic} disaster in Nigeria, a startling announcement got here by means of the Senate chambers of the National Assembly. The Senate President Godswill Akpabio revealed that the Federal Government of Nigeria had disbursed ₦30 billion to every state Governor, which was outdoors of their common statutory allocation. The objective of the disbursement is to sort out the worsening situation of meals provide. Despite the Federal Government’s efforts, the Zamfara state markets stay empty, meals costs proceed to soar, and the folks of the state are left asking “Where did the Zamfara money go”?
This revelation isn’t just a fiscal footnote however a wake-up name to ask Zamfara Governor the place is the ₦30 billion per state since it isn’t a small quantity. With that sort of funding, communities in Zamfara ought to have seen new meals distribution facilities, sponsored items, higher storage infrastructure, and direct help to farmers. Instead, many Zamfara folks nonetheless grappling with every day starvation and worsening inflation.
The larger query is that this: Are the Zamfara folks holding their governor accountable? For too lengthy, there was a disconnect between allocation and accountability. The federal authorities will get blamed for the whole lot, whereas state governments cover within the shadows. But this ₦30 billion lifeline calls for scrutiny was meant to feed the folks, not fatten the pockets of some. The folks of Zamfara have each proper and duty to ask their state Governor for transparency and detailed reviews.
Democracy thrives when leaders are questioned, not worshiped. Asking Governors “Where is our ₦30 billion?” will not be being political solely, however it’s being accountable. Nigerians should transfer past tribal or get together loyalty and concentrate on outcomes. Local journalists, civic {groups}, youth organizations, and market girls all have a task to play in demanding solutions. Without public strain, funds will preserve vanishing with out hint, and crises will deepen.
This isn’t just about lacking cash, it’s a few missed alternative to ease struggling. It is about Zamfara youngsters who go to mattress hungry whereas billions are unaccounted for. So, the subsequent time Zamfara State governor holds a city corridor, ask concerning the ₦30 billion. Ask for receipts, not rhetoric. Because if you don’t ask, he wouldn’t reply. And if the doesn’t reply, Zamfara plenty will all pay the value.
