- The Allegation: APC leaders claim lawmakers were bribed with N150 billion.
- The Response: Lawmakers vehemently deny the bribe, calling the claims false.
- The Bond: It’s for N350 billion and aimed at funding development projects in Taraba State.
- The Defense: Lawmakers insist they’re independent and acting in the state’s best interest.
What’s the Big Deal? The N350 Billion Bond Drama
Things are heating up in Taraba State! The state’s House of Assembly is facing some serious heat after approving a whopping N350 billion bond for Governor Agbu Kefas. But here’s the kicker: some folks are saying the lawmakers were paid off to give the green light.
APC Throws Shade: Bribe Allegations Fly
The All Progressives Congress (APC), led by bigwig Ardo Jika, is stirring the pot. They’re claiming that the lawmakers pocketed a cool N150 billion bribe to rubber-stamp the bond. Jika is questioning how the state government plans to use and repay such a massive loan, especially since federal allocations have jumped from N3 billion to N13 billion monthly, and internally generated revenue (IGR) is also up. According to the National Bureau of Statistics, Taraba State’s IGR has seen a steady increase in recent years, so the questions about the bond are definitely worth asking.
Lawmakers Bite Back: “False and Baseless!”
Not so fast, says the House Committee Chairman on Information, Nelson Len. He’s slamming the allegations as “false and baseless.” Len told reporters in Jalingo that the bond was presented legally, and no financial incentives were involved. He added, “The claim that we were given N150 billion is false, baseless, and misleading. We approved the bond because it is aimed at fostering development in Taraba State. The funds will be accessed in N20 billion tranches and will be used for meaningful projects.”
Loans are Normal, But Transparency is Key
Len makes a valid point: “No government can operate successfully without collecting loans.” Loans and bonds are common tools for governments to fund projects and stimulate economic growth. However, the real issue is transparency and accountability. Citizens have a right to know exactly how these funds will be used and how the government plans to repay them. The Debt Management Office of Nigeria provides detailed information on the country’s debt profile, highlighting the importance of responsible borrowing.
Not a Rubber Stamp: Assembly Defends Its Independence
The lawmakers are also pushing back against claims that they’re just puppets for the governor. They insist they’re independent and committed to serving the people’s best interests. “We are not puppets to the governor,” Len declared, emphasizing the Assembly’s role in ensuring accountability and transparency.
What Happens Next?
This is a developing story, and it’s crucial to stay informed. Will the APC provide more concrete evidence of the alleged bribe? Will the Taraba State government offer a detailed breakdown of how the bond funds will be used? Only time will tell. Stay tuned for updates!
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