Renowned political activist, Usman Austin, has slammed the Nigerian Governors’ Forum for prioritising personal interests over public welfare.
News About Nigeria reports that Austin, a native of Kogi State, said that the forum has become a major obstacle to Nigeria’s progress, perpetuating a culture of power-hungry politicians who exploit their positions for personal gain.
In a statement, Austin condemned the governors for dismantling the local government system, reducing state assemblies to mere puppets, and undermining traditional institutions and the judiciary.
He alleged that they have turned judges into mere errand boys, stripping them of their independence and integrity.
Austin described the Governors’ Forum as a “cartel of the enemies of the masses,” adding that its members are more concerned with advancing their own egos and agendas than with addressing the pressing needs of their constituents.
He alleged that funds meant to assist states are often misappropriated, with resources intended for public use being diverted for personal gain.
Citing the situation in Kogi State as an example, Austin alleged that Governor Usman Ododo has allocated resources exclusively to political allies and youth leaders, who then resell these resources in the market.
He challenged the governors to account for the billions they have received in the name of intervention and palliatives, claiming that they have systematically destroyed local governments, state judiciaries, and traditional institutions.
Austin accused the governors of operating in an authoritarian manner, using the forum to manipulate the presidency for their own benefit.
He emphasised the need for the governors to allow the system to function effectively, arguing that without a robust and independent local government system, Nigeria’s problems will persist.
He stressed that the country is fundamentally built on a third-tier system of government and called on the governors to reflect on their practices.
Austin questioned the governors’ commitment to transparency and accountability, asking how many of them can claim not to owe local government workers in their various states.
