Government Slashes Budget For Edo Deputy Governor Amid Crisis

Government Slashes Budget For Edo Deputy Governor Amid Crisis....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

In a recent development, the ongoing discord between Governor Godwin Obaseki and Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu in Edo State has escalated, as the 2024 Budget allocates a mere N345 million to the Office of the Deputy Governor, significantly lower than the N19 billion allocated to the Office of the State Governor…..CONTINUE READING

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The budget, signed into law by the governor on December 15, 2023, reveals a stark contrast in allocations, with the Office of the Secretary to the State Government receiving N8 billion, far surpassing the deputy governor’s office. Additionally, the House of Assembly secured N13 billion, while the Office of the Head of Service received N968 million.

Insiders suggest that the reduction in the deputy governor’s allocation is linked to his gubernatorial aspirations, with some lawmakers loyal to him opposing the budget’s passage by the assembly. Despite these reported divisions, a principal member of the House of Assembly denies any internal strife.

According to sources, lawmakers opposing the budget described it as an “unfair appropriation,” but their objections were reportedly overruled by other assembly members. The contentious budget allocation is believed to have intensified the existing tension between the governor and his deputy.

Deputy Governor Shaibu recently revealed that his office had not received any allocation in the past six months due to the strained relationship with the governor. Speaking at the unveiling of a Correspondent Office in Benin, he disclosed that he had been managing his office and other activities through contributions from friends and goodwill.

Shaibu emphasized the ongoing tension, stating, “You know there is tension between the governor and me. And for six months, there has been no allocation to my office. So, whatever I am doing is contributions from friends and my goodwill; and I am still standing very strong.” The fiscal dispute adds another layer to the political complexities in Edo State, raising questions about the impact on governance and the relationship between key political figures.

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