The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kwara State has strongly criticised the alleged plan by Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq’s administration to construct a new Government House Secretariat in Ilorin, describing the move as illogical and a misplaced priority.

In a statement issued on Monday by the state PDP Publicity Secretary, Olusegun Olusola Adewara, the opposition party accused the government of plotting to siphon public funds under the guise of infrastructural development.

Adewara expressed shock over the proposed project, particularly at a time when, according to him, many parts of the state are reeling under infrastructural collapse.

“Several communities in Kwara State are groaning under the weight of deplorable roads, collapsed school structures, poorly equipped hospitals, and a worsening poverty rate,” the statement read.

He queried the rationale behind building a new secretariat when the current administration has just two years left in office.

“What pressing need does a new Government House Secretariat serve at this twilight of his administration?” Adewara asked.

Existing Ilorin Government House Underutilised, Funds Wasted – PDP

The PDP further argued that the existing Government House complex remains underutilised, citing the governor’s alleged refusal to use the facility since assuming office in 2019.

“Despite its luxuries and aesthetic rating, the facility remains largely abandoned. Yet, every year, this administration allocates and spends hundreds of millions of naira on its maintenance,” he said.

Citing past records, Adewara recalled that in 2021, Governor Abdulrazaq’s government budgeted ₦3.2 billion for the renovation of the Government House, questioning what value the people have received in return.

‘Come clean, Publish contract details’ – PDP Demands

Calling for transparency, the PDP challenged the governor to publish full contract details and the costs associated with the proposed construction.

“Kwarans deserve to know how their commonwealth is being deployed, especially at a time when many families are struggling to survive amid biting economic hardship and government neglect,” the statement added.

The party also alleged that the contract is being awarded to a foreign company, contrary to the administration’s ‘Otoge’ campaign promise of empowering local contractors to boost the state’s economy.

“This is a direct contradiction of the promises made to Kwarans. What happened to empowering local professionals and stimulating indigenous enterprise?” the opposition party questioned.

Urging citizens to resist what it described as “vanity projects”, the PDP called on the people to stay vigilant and demand accountability.

“We must not allow this administration to mortgage the future of our children with projects that serve no urgent purpose and yield no long-term benefit,” the statement concluded.