An Open Letter to the Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq
By Concerned Citizens
Dear Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq,
We are writing to express deep concerns about the welfare of the people of Kwara State under your leadership. Despite the state’s substantial monthly allocations, citizens continue to struggle with poverty, hunger, and lack of access to basic necessities. The situation is particularly dire in Kwara State, where hunger is rising at an alarming rate, with citizens struggling to make ends meet despite the drop in food commodity prices.
The increment of the level of hunger is a big problem fueling security threats in the state. As hunger continues to soar, desperate individuals may resort to extreme measures to survive, posing a significant risk to the stability of the state. It is imperative that the government takes proactive steps to address the root causes of poverty and hunger.
The Alarming Rate of Hunger
People are dying before their time by hunger every day. This is a tragic reality that is unfolding in our state, and it is our collective responsibility to address it. The government must take immediate action to provide relief to those suffering from hunger and poverty.
Misplaced Priorities
We are concerned that the government is concentrating on bigger projects that are of less concern to the citizens, rather than investing in human capacity development programs. Billions of naira are being awarded to different projects every week, while only meager amounts are allocated to human development. This approach is not only unsustainable but also perpetuates poverty and inequality.
Contract Award Process
Furthermore, we are concerned about the contract award process in the state. Contracts are often awarded to local contractors or businesses through intermediaries, who cut a significant portion of the funds before executing the contract. This practice not only increases the cost of projects but also undermines the potential of local businesses. We urge the government to award contracts directly to local contractors or businesses, without intermediaries, to ensure that the funds are utilized efficiently.
Efficient Utilization of Funds
We also urge the government to ensure that funds are utilized efficiently and for the quality standard of the job. This can be achieved by implementing robust monitoring and evaluation mechanisms, as well as ensuring transparency and accountability in the contract award process.
The Paradox of Poverty Amidst Plenty
Kwara State is not alone in this struggle. Many states in Nigeria are facing similar challenges, with citizens suffering despite the government’s substantial allocations. The situation is further exacerbated by the fact that projects are often awarded to foreign entities, rather than local businesses and taxpayers. This approach not only undermines the potential of local businesses but also perpetuates poverty and dependence on government handouts.
Key Concerns:
- Poverty Alleviation: The state government’s efforts to alleviate poverty seem inadequate, with many citizens struggling to make ends meet. The poverty rate in Kwara State is alarming, and it’s essential that the government takes proactive steps to address this issue.
- Project Allocation: It’s disheartening to see projects being awarded to foreign entities rather than local taxpayers and businesses, which could boost the local economy. This approach not only undermines the potential of local businesses but also perpetuates poverty and dependence on government handouts.
- Civil Servants’ Welfare: The fact that civil servants are not exempt from paying taxes despite the economic hardships raises questions about the government’s priorities. Civil servants are the backbone of the state’s economy, and their welfare should be a top priority.
Recommendations:
- Prioritize Human Capacity Development: Invest in programs that provide citizens with skills and resources to break the cycle of poverty. This could include vocational training, entrepreneurship programs, and microfinance initiatives.
- Prioritize Local Content: Award projects directly to local businesses and taxpayers to stimulate economic growth and development. This approach will not only boost the local economy but also create jobs and opportunities for citizens.
- Support Civil Servants: Consider relief measures for civil servants struggling with the economic situation. This could include tax exemptions, salary increases, or other forms of support.
- Empower MSMEs: Establish clinics and programs to support micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises, fostering entrepreneurship and job creation. MSMEs are the backbone of any economy, and supporting them will have a positive impact on the state’s economy.
Appreciation and Call to Action
We appreciate the work you have done so far, Governor, and we understand that your vision is to change the look of the state. However, we urge you to also prioritize changing the face of the people, so that they can befit the new look of the state. By investing in the welfare of citizens and implementing policies that benefit the local population, you can create a brighter future for the people of Kwara State.
Sincerely,
Comr. Sulaiman Abdulfatai O.
