Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, has launched a scathing critique against the Kogi State Government, lambasting its approach to development and governance.
Speaking in Okene, the lawmaker expressed deep concern over what she described as a palpable lack of progress, asserting that despite substantial federal allocations, the state has little to show beyond basic salary payments.
In a pointed address, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan declared, “Only thugs are being rewarded. No development. Paying salaries is not an achievement.” She sharply contrasted Kogi’s situation with the strides made by Governor Alex Otti in Abia State, challenging the notion that salary disbursements alone constitute a governmental success.
“Look at what Abia State Governor Alex Otti is doing in his state, yet you are boasting about paying salaries in Kogi,” she added, emphasizing a clear divergence in leadership priorities and outcomes.
According to Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, while leaders in Kogi celebrate the fulfillment of a fundamental obligation, governors like Otti are actively commissioning extensive road networks, spearheading the revitalization of Aba, establishing crucial infrastructure, and concurrently ensuring timely salary payments, thereby transforming their respective states. She underscored that remuneration of workers is a primary responsibility for any administration, not an extraordinary feat worthy of grand celebration.
The lawmaker further stressed the significant disparity, stating, “What Alex Otti has done in Abia in less than two years, Kogi has not done in 10 years. That man has changed Aba, he has fixed roads, hospitals, schools, and he is still paying salaries. So what are we celebrating here?”
Her remarks underscore a growing sentiment among critics regarding the imperative for visible development beyond routine administrative duties in resource-rich states, calling for accountability and tangible progress for the populace.