Obi: It’s Reckless, Insensitive to Nigerians for OAGF to Hold Workshop in UK 

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

The presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in last year’s election, Peter Obi, has criticised the holding of a workshop in London by the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation (OAGF) for Accountant Generals and Commissioners for Finance of the 36 states of the federation, saying it smacks of insensitivity to the worrisome plight of suffering Nigerians.

The OAGF held a meeting for the 36 state commissioners of finance and state accountant general in London last week.
Obi, who said Nigerians must resist and denounce such recklessness as a clear show of insensitivity, warned on his X handle yesterday, that: “Nigerians must vehemently denounce and condemn the decision of Nigeria’s Accountant-General’s Office to hold a workshop in London. This decision is not only unacceptable but also deeply troubling on multiple levels.”

According to Obi, “Given the prevailing hardship in the country and the pitiable state of our national currency, any public function abroad amounts to insensitivity on the part of the government and any agency or individuals involved.  
“First and foremost, it represents a blatant disregard for fiscal responsibility and prudent expenditure of public funds. At a time when Nigeria is grappling with economic challenges, including inflation, currency devaluation, and a widening budget deficit, it is utterly irresponsible to squander taxpayer’s money on extravagant overseas workshops.
“The resources allocated for such purposes should be directed towards addressing pressing domestic needs, such as healthcare, education, infrastructure, and poverty alleviation.

“Furthermore, holding a workshop in London sends the wrong message to the Nigerian people and the international community. It perpetuates the perception of government officials indulging in luxury and extravagance at the expense of the common citizen. It fosters a culture of elitism and detachment from the realities faced by ordinary Nigerians, who struggle daily to make ends meet amidst rising living costs and limited access to essential services.

“Moreover, there are serious questions regarding the necessity and effectiveness of conducting a workshop abroad, particularly in a city as expensive as London. Nigeria is home to numerous highly qualified professionals and experts who are more than capable of providing the required training and expertise.
“By outsourcing such activities to foreign countries, the government not only undermines local expertise but also fails to leverage the wealth of knowledge and experience within the nation’s borders.

“Additionally, holding a workshop in London raises concerns about transparency and accountability in government procurement processes.
“There must be full disclosure and justification for why London was chosen as the venue, as well as how the selection of vendors and contractors was made.
“Any hint of impropriety or favouritism in awarding contracts for such events must be thoroughly investigated and addressed,” Obi added.