Voice Air Media, VAM News Update

THE Osun Masterminds, TOM, a civil society organisation has described the alleged non-utilisation of the N2 billion palliative from the Federal Government and the insistence on adding the sum of N100 billion infrastructure plan by the state government as criminal and a diversion of funds.

This allegation was made by Professor Wasiu Oyedokun-Alli, the Executive Director of the group during the monthly State of the State address on Tuesday in Osogbo.

Oyedokun-Alli also alleged that the provision of ‘Imole De’ buses for the masses was not palliative while other states of the federation were taking critical steps to reduce their people’s hardship.

He appealed to the Osun government to ensure that palliatives meant to cushion the effects of fuel subsidy are adequately utilised for the purpose they are sent for.

“The questions we continue to ask the Osun State Government, however, include how has the Osun State Government utilized the two billion Naira it received? Stubbornly insisting on adding the sum to its 100 billion Naira Infrastructure plan is a diversion of funds and it is as criminal as it is inhuman.

“We are also asking what the State Government’s additional palliatives are. Other States of the Federation are taking critical steps to reduce the hardship on their people. What is Osun doing? Provision of Imole De Buses is not palliative to the generality of Osun people.

“We are also asking the Osun State Government, what it is doing with the allocation windfall it is receiving from the Federal Government. When times are easier, the Government should be seen taking deliberate steps to plan for tough days. What are we doing with the increased figures we receive today?

“We are also asking the Osun State Government, what is the State’s Agricultural Production plan? What is Osun State doing to achieve food sufficiency here in the State? Where is the Osun State Commissioner for Agriculture at a time like this? What is his Ministry doing?”

The group, which also called for the reopening of courts in the state, charged the government to find a lasting solution to the issue of illegal mining in the state.

“Whatever the true intentions of the State Government are, the continued closure of the Courts cripples the administration of Criminal Justice and protection of innocent citizens, and this is not acceptable.

“The Courts must open now! Whatever politics is being played behind the curtains must stop immediately so we can allow this critical arm of government to perform its functions.”