- Lawmaker Joshua Audu Gana defends his record.
- Constituents express disappointment and frustration.
- Debate over funding and political affiliation.
Niger Lawmaker Stands Firm
Joshua Audu Gana, representing the Lavun/Mokwa/Edati Federal Constituency of Niger State, has made it clear: he won’t engage in corruption to satisfy the demands of his constituents. Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Mokwa Local Council, Gana addressed growing discontent among local party leaders, including Alhaji Suleiman Kupanti, the PDP Chairman in the area, who criticized his performance.
‘I’m Not God!’: Lawmaker Defends His Actions
Gana emphasized the limitations of his office, stating, “I thank God I am not God. The money in public office is not my father’s money. It is government money.” He urged his constituents to consider the national budget and the allocation for their constituency before holding him accountable. He further explained that projects can only be executed if they are fully funded.
Is Being in the Opposition a Disadvantage?
Gana suggested that his position in the opposition party might be hindering his ability to secure funding for projects. He noted that the ruling APC (All Progressives Congress) controls the majority of allocations. He drew a comparison to the previous administration when the PDP was in power, implying that the current political climate significantly impacts project funding. According to Premium Times, the APC has been gaining ground in recent elections, solidifying their control over key political positions.
Backlash and Mixed Reactions
Gana’s remarks have been met with mixed reactions. Some constituents expressed frustration and demanded more action instead of what they perceived as excuses. Others, his supporters, have pledged to learn from the situation and reassess his leadership moving forward. This situation highlights the challenges faced by many Nigerian lawmakers who are often expected to deliver significant improvements to their constituencies, even with limited resources and political constraints.
The Bigger Picture: Challenges of Governance in Nigeria
This incident sheds light on the broader issues of governance and development in Nigeria. With high expectations from the public and limited resources, lawmakers often find themselves in a difficult position. The lack of transparency in budget allocation and the influence of political affiliations further complicate matters. The issue is further compounded because of high levels of alleged corruption, as reported by The Guardian, despite many governmental efforts to curb corruption.
What’s Next?
The situation in Lavun/Mokwa/Edati Federal Constituency remains tense as constituents await tangible results. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether Gana can bridge the gap between expectations and reality. This situation serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges and complexities of Nigerian politics and the need for greater accountability and transparency in governance.
