Obi condemns exclusion of N/Central from regional commission budget

By John Alechenu, Abuja

The presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, has condemned the federal government’s decision to exclude the North Central from its 2025 fiscal budgetary allocations to the regional commissions.

Obi registered his displeasure with the federal government’s action in a tweet on his X handle.

He noted that the federal government’s action, which was discriminatory, had far-reaching implications.

Obi said, “The exclusion of the North Central Regional Commission from the budgetary allocations provided to other regional commissions in the 2025 proposed budget is deeply troubling and must be urgently reversed.

“Such an anomaly does not make for the even development and peace that is needed for progress in the country.

“A total of N2.493 trillion has been allocated to five regional development commissions, with the North Central Regional Commission glaringly omitted.

“The North Central region is one that urgently requires special attention due to the severe challenges it faces today.

Relentless terror attacks and banditry in Plateau, Benue, Kogi, and Niger States have caused immense suffering, resulting in significant loss of lives and forcing countless families into internally displaced persons (IDP) camps.

“These persistent tragedies have made the North Central one of the most affected and vulnerable regions in Nigeria.

“Known as the agricultural backbone of the nation, the North Central region deserves robust support to enhance security, stability, and development for the benefit of the entire country.

“I, therefore, call on the government and National Assembly to urgently review and rectify this decision that will impact negatively on the region and area most needed for the development of the country.

“Together, we must work toward a more inclusive and equitable Nigeria. A New Nigeria is not just a dream—it is POssible.”