Ex-envoy to Tinubu: Distributing grants, palliatives through governors ineffective

Steven Ibileke, former Nigerian ambassador to the Netherlands, has asked President Bola Tinubu to stop distributing grants and palliatives through state governors.

In a statement on Monday, Ibileke alleged that many resources are being mismanaged, diverted, or used to favour the governors’ allies, excluding the majority of citizens.

He further claimed that the current system of funnelling federal programmes through state governors has led to widespread corruption.

Ibileke urged Tinubu to explore alternative ways to distribute grants and palliatives directly to the intended beneficiaries.

“The bulk of these programmes are cornered by the governors, to the extent that even senators and members of the National Assembly from these states are often excluded from the benefits,” Ibileke said.

“Most of the items intended to alleviate the suffering of the people are being diverted for personal gain.

“This practice not only undermines the federal government’s efforts to support the needy but also erodes public trust in these vital programmes.

“The President must act swiftly to reroute these grants and palliatives directly to the people.

“Bypassing the governors is crucial for restoring faith in federal support programmes and ensuring that these resources serve the people as intended.”