Peter Obi criticises AGF for London retreat amidst economic hardship
Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has denounced the Accountant-General of the Federation, Oluwatoyin Madein, for organising a retreat in London for state finance commissioners.
In a lengthy post on his X handle, Obi stated on Saturday that Nigerians must vehemently condemn the decision of Nigeria’s Accountant-General’s Office to hold a workshop in London.“This decision is not only unacceptable but also deeply troubling on multiple levels.
Given the prevailing hardship in the country and the pitiable state of our national currency and the economy in general, any public function abroad amounts to insensitivity on the part of the government and any agency or individuals involved.
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“First and foremost, it represents a blatant disregard for fiscal responsibility and prudent expenditure of public funds.
“At a time when Nigeria is grappling with economic challenges, including inflation, currency devaluation, and a widening budget deficit, it is utterly irresponsible to squander taxpayers’ money on extravagant overseas workshops,” Obi stated.
Peter Obi suggested that the funds assigned for such objectives ought to have been channeled towards mitigating critical domestic exigencies, such as healthcare, education, infrastructure and poverty alleviation. READ ALSO: How Nigerian lawmakers padded 2024 budget with over N53 billion vague projects
He also said that holding a workshop in London sent the wrong message to the Nigerian people and the international community.
“It perpetuates the perception of government officials indulging in luxury and extravagance at the expense of the common citizen.
“It fosters a culture of elitism and detachment from the realities faced by ordinary Nigerians, who struggle daily to make ends meet amidst rising living costs and limited access to essential services.
“Moreover, there are serious questions regarding the necessity and effectiveness of conducting a workshop abroad, particularly in a city as expensive as London,” Obi stated.
He observed that Nigeria boasts a multitude of exceptionally skilled professionals and specialists who possess the necessary proficiency and knowledge to deliver the requisite training and expertise.
