The residents of Niger State have condemned plans by the state government to host a ‘grand reception’ in honour of the newly appointed ministers, elected senators and members of the House of Representatives and Assembly.
Recall that the Secretary to the State Government, SSG, Abubakar Usman, had on Monday in a statement said the state government would honour the legislators and political appointees on Saturday, September 9.
But the SSG’s announcement was greeted by outcry from many residents especially on the heels of biting economic hardship being felt across the country, following the removal of fuel subsidy.
Condemning the planned reception, many residents of the state took to their Facebook page to lambast Governor Umaru Bago for allegedly being insensitive to the suffering of the masses in the state.
A Facebook user, Abdullahi Usman, wondered why the governor would waste taxpayers’ money to sponsor an event that had been celebrated earlier by friends and family members of the appointees.
Mr Usman said: “Reception, anniversary, or anything is uncalled for. Their family and friend’s celebrated them already.
“Niger State Government, please use the money meant for the grand reception to buy food items and share to HUNGRY Nigerlites. It’ll be better for us all.”
Another user, Abdullahi Ndagi, said: “Grand reception, Haba Niger State, for what na?
Mohammed Isah Vulegbo wrote: “A grand reception at this critical time.Too bad, this may not be the Bago I voted for.”
Also commenting on the issue, a social activist and Nupe writer, Adamu Idris Manarakiss, lampooned the governor and his close aides for allegedly engaging in misplaced priorities.
He asked those around the governor to advise him to jettison the plans.
“Tell H.E. Mohammed Bago that that decision of reception for political office holders is a waste of resources. Nigerlites are in hunger and should we watch this menace and keep quiet God Almighty will not forgive all of us,” Mr Manarakiss said.
Another user, Muhammad Amin, wished the governor would listen to the criticism that has trailed the proposed event.
“I wish they’d come out and cancel that grand reception with the way people are crying and complaining”, he said.
Meanwhile, when contacted on the matter, the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Bologi Ibrahim, declined comment, saying: “I can’t comment on the issue at the moment.”
