A recent report has revealed alarming spending priorities by the Ekiti State government.
In the first nine months of 2024, a staggering N314 million was spent on office furniture.
This amount covers the purchase of 100 executive chairs and tables, 30 additional tables, 100 more chairs, and 15 settees.
Meanwhile, spending on essential medical equipment remained non-existent during the same period.
The information comes from Ekiti State’s third-quarter 2024 budget performance documents.
These documents highlight the stark contrast in priorities set by the state government.
While the government allocated N163 million for the rehabilitation and repair of water facilities, that amount is significantly lower than what was spent on office furniture.
Only N200 million was allocated for public school rehabilitation.
Even more concerning is the paltry N4.3 million spent on the development of primary healthcare in the state.
In comparison, the Ministry of Environment received N264.6 million for capital expenditure, while rural and community development garnered N157.1 million.
These amounts still pale against the extravagant spending on furniture.
Lack of Investment in Healthcare
The lack of investment in health services raises serious concerns among citizens.
Despite the pressing need for medical equipment, the state government spent zero naira on purchasing health or medical equipment during this period.
This decision comes at a time when healthcare facilities across Nigeria are in dire need of resources.
Many citizens have expressed their outrage over the government’s misplaced priorities.
A local resident, Mrs. Olabisi Ogunleye, stated, “It’s shocking to see such large sums spent on furniture while our hospitals lack basic equipment. This is not what we expect from our leaders.”
As the news spreads, calls for accountability are growing louder.
Opposition leaders have criticized the government’s spending habits and called for a re-evaluation of budget priorities.
“We cannot continue to ignore the suffering of our people while spending millions on office furniture,” said a member of the opposition party, Mr. Adeyemi Lawal.
“We need to focus on improving healthcare, education, and infrastructure, not just lavish office spaces.”
The government’s response to these criticisms has been minimal.
However, it is clear that citizens are demanding answers and a change in priorities.
The situation in Ekiti State is not unique.
Nigeria has faced a long-standing healthcare crisis.
Many hospitals and clinics lack essential medical supplies and equipment.
According to the World Health Organization, Nigeria’s healthcare system ranks low globally in terms of funding and resources.
The recent report from Ekiti State only highlights the urgent need for reform in budget allocations, focusing more on the health sector.
The public reaction to the government’s spending priorities has been overwhelmingly negative.
Social media platforms have become flooded with comments criticizing the Ekiti State government for its lavish spending on office furniture while ignoring critical healthcare needs.
A Twitter user, @EkitiConcerned, tweeted, “How can a government prioritize chairs over the health of its citizens? This is unacceptable!”
