By Kasim Isa Muhammad
Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello has sparked mixed reactions with a generous, but controversial, gift-giving spree.
On Friday, he presented 40 SUVs, four Hilux vans, 25 ambulances, and three fire trucks to various sectors across the state.
Lawmakers and judges were the lucky recipients of the luxury vehicles.
The Speaker of the House of Assembly, Umar Yusuf, received a Jeep and two supporting cars, while his deputy and other members each got one SUV of varying classes and brands.
Nine cars were also allocated to the judiciary for distribution among judges.
Governor Bello justified the extravagant gesture as a way to “stimulate performance and reward hard work.”
He urged the beneficiaries to see it as an encouragement to “serve the state better towards its growth and development.”
However, the move has drawn criticism from some who question the appropriateness of such lavish spending amidst reports of poverty and infrastructure challenges in the state.
Critics argue that the funds could have been better directed towards crucial public services like healthcare or education.
The 25 ambulances were distributed across the state, with one going to each of the 21 local government primary health care centers, three to referral hospitals in different senatorial districts, and one to the Kogi Specialist Hospital.
The move was met with praise from Health Commissioner Dr. Usman Zakari, who hailed it as a significant step towards improving healthcare accessibility for Kogi residents.
Governor Bello also extended to the state’s fire service, which received three brand new firefighting vans.
This was also welcomed by officials who acknowledged the need for better equipment to effectively combat fire emergencies.
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