The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ekiti State voiced strong objections on Saturday regarding an upcoming trip to Canada by members of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, characterizing it as a wasteful expenditure of state resources.
Dare Adeleke, Chairman of the PDP’s caretaker committee in Ekiti, rejected the Speaker of the House, Adeoye Aribasoye’s claims that the trip would be personally funded by willing Assembly members, rather than through legislative or state funds. According to Adeleke, it was “illogical” for lawmakers, who he argued had not significantly benefited their constituencies, to consider spending substantial personal funds on a workshop abroad.
Adeleke shared his concerns in an interview with Saturday PUNCH, stating, “Considering the economic situation in Nigeria, this trip is insensitive and inappropriate. While professional development is important, this is hardly the time for extravagant trips abroad. If it truly were self-sponsored, why not invite Canadian experts to Ekiti instead?” He suggested that such an approach would achieve similar outcomes without unnecessary spending.
Similarly, the Chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in Ekiti State, Dele Ekunola, argued that any retreat should be entirely self-funded by the legislators, not at the expense of the state’s finances. He emphasized, “If the lawmakers are indeed paying for the trip themselves for professional growth, it could be beneficial to Ekiti. However, using government funds would be irresponsible, especially given the current economic realities.”
Ekiti State Commissioner for Information, Taiwo Olatunbosun, dismissed the opposition’s criticism as political posturing. “This is a self-sponsored program,” he stated. “The Speaker has made it clear: no state funds have been allocated to this retreat. If the PDP or any critics have facts showing otherwise, let them present them.” He claimed the PDP was engaging in a publicity stunt to gain attention.
A letter, dated October 18, from the clerk of the Ekiti State Assembly to the President of the Ekiti Kete Canada Association, indicated that the planned retreat is intended to improve the lawmakers’ policy-handling abilities and foster ties with the Nigerian community in Canada.
The scheduled trip, anticipated to occur in November, has stirred ongoing debate on whether such activities should be prioritized amidst the current economic challenges faced by the state.
