The Ekiti State House of Assembly reportedly plans to embark on a trip to Canada with over ₦250 million budget.
The Federation of Ekiti State Students’ Union (FESSU) has since issued a strong critique of the proposed trip by the lawmakers, describing the idea as ill-conceived at such a time in Nigeria.
During a Press Conference held in Ado-Ekiti, the President of the Association, Benjamin Onileowo, expressed his disapproval of the trip, deeming it insensitive in light of the critical issues impacting the populace’s everyday lives.
Naijaonpoint reports that Onileowo brought up this issue in the context of his six-month tenure milestone, suggesting that the seven-day trip would accommodate 18 members, five spouses, and four aides.
He further highlighted that the funds allocated for this trip could be better utilized in the education sector, where they could provide ₦50,000 bursaries to over 5,000 students across the state, benefiting them in their respective constituencies.
He said: “As Nigeria continues to grapple with significant economic challenges that have impacted all sectors negatively, especially education.
“It must be stated emphatically that we consider the said self-sponsored Canada trip planned by the Ekiti State House of Assembly as ill-conceived. This is not the time for such an endeavour, especially when the state requires the support of every stakeholder to address pressing issues affecting the livelihood of the common man and to salvage our education sector.
“Our lawmakers plan to spend over ₦250 million to travel overseas for seven days with 18 members, 5 spouses, and 4 aides, totally 27 people.
“We condemn this move and call for re-evaluation of such action. ₦250 million could provide a ₦50,000 bursary for over 5,000 students of Ekiti State in their respective constituencies.”