Edo state's All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo, is calling for transparency regarding a N5 billion federal grant intended to aid civil servants.
Okpebholo issued a statement on developments leading up to the September 21st election. He argues that Governor Godwin Obaseki's recent minimum wage announcement is a deflection from pressing issues.
The statement references the N5 billion allocated by President Buhari's administration in 2023. This grant aimed to support states in acquiring food provisions for low-income residents and providing additional salary payments to civil servants for six months.
Okpebholo criticizes the minimum wage increase as a "Greek Gift," suggesting it's an empty promise. He demands Governor Obaseki clarify the whereabouts of the N5 billion, alleging it's being used for the upcoming election.
Okpebholo highlights the reported six-month salary arrears owed to Edo civil servants. He compares this situation to other states that utilized the federal grant to distribute aid and top up salaries.
The statement criticizes Governor Obaseki's silence on the matter and demands an explanation for the unutilized funds. Okpebholo claims Edo residents haven't received any form of financial assistance from the state government.
He accuses the Governor of using the N5 billion for vote-buying tactics and criticizes the treatment of civil servants. Okpebholo argues that Edo's civil servants deserve better and shouldn't be manipulated with empty promises.
The statement concludes by suggesting that Edo civil servants recognize Governor Obaseki's shortcomings across various sectors.
Please note: This rewrite avoids using inflammatory language and focuses on presenting the core points of the statement.