The Taraba State chapter of the People Redemption Party (PRP), has accused the state government of misappropriation and management of state funds.
The allegations which were contained in a statement issued on Sunday by Chairman of the PRP in the state, Engineer Idris Umar Tantano, accused the Governor Agbo Kefas-led administration of wasting the state‘s funds on frivolities like procuring luxury vehicles for lawmakers and government appointees, embarking on fruitless foreign trips as well as “lining the pockets of politicians, judges, and directors over investing in the state’s future”.
In the statement titled ‘Unveiling the Truth: Taraba State’s Mismanaged Funds,’ Tantano alleged that the government has squandered the state resources including its internally generated revenue, instead of attracting investors and creating jobs for unemployed youths in the state.
“The administration’s short-sightedness and corruption have led to this opportunity being wasted excluding other funds such as grants, NG-CARES, etc.
“₦112.2 billion allocated by the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) for day-to-day activities.
Itemizing its grievances against the government, the PRP listed funds it said the state had received:
– N35.2 billion internally generated revenue (IGR) since June 2024)
– N206 billion borrowed by the Governor Agbu Kefas administration
– N50 billion loan secured from UBA for the 16 Local government councils
– N150 billion facility negotiated with a consortium of six Nigerian Banks for projects
“With such massive funds at their disposal, one would expect the Taraba State government to have made significant progress in transforming the livelihood of its citizens. Instead, we are left wondering where these funds have gone.
“Instead of utilizing the state’s resources to attract investors and create jobs, the administration has spent ₦ 6.9 billion on international travels in 2024 with no tangible benefits.
“Meanwhile, the people of Taraba State continue to suffer from inadequate infrastructure, poor healthcare, and limited economic opportunities”.
The party said “as we delve into the financial records of Taraba State, a disturbing picture emerges.
“The procurement of JAC Jeeps presents a perfect opportunity for the state to negotiate with investors to invest in Taraba state from its inception on 27th August 1991 till date, the state continues to suffer from inadequate infrastructure, poor healthcare, and limited economic opportunities.
‘Billions of naira have been siphoned off for buying vehicles for politicians, judges, and directors instead of establishing a car assembly plant. This would not only generate revenue but also create thousands of jobs for millions of unemployed youths in the state.
“Where did the funds go? A call for accountability:
“As the opposition, we demand that the administration provides a detailed account of how the state funds its budgets. We will utilize all legal instruments to ensure transparency and accountability.
“The people of Taraba State deserve better. It’s time for a change. Come 2027, we are confident that a PRP candidate will steer the Taraba State government towards real governance and meaningful development and oversee the welfare of the people. It’s time for a change, and we’re committed to bringing about a new era.
“As the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), we demand a public audit and accountability of these funds and transparency, accountability, and prosperity to Taraba State.
“We will not stand idly by while the ruling party continues to prioritize their own interests.”
