By Daniel Edu
Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), has strongly criticized the decision of the Accountant General of the Federation and the Commissioners of Finance from all 36 states to conduct a workshop in the United Kingdom.
Reports emerged detailing that the Office of the AGF organized a workshop on Public Financial Management and International Public Sector Accounting Standards in London, UK. The workshop reportedly took place at Copthorne Tara Hotel, Kensington London, from March 4 to March 9, 2024.
The decision to hold such an event abroad has drawn widespread condemnation from Nigerians and organizations, particularly considering the economic challenges facing the nation.
In a statement released via his official channels on Saturday, Obi expressed his dismay over the insensitivity demonstrated by the AGF and the commissioners. He called upon Nigerians to condemn the action, emphasizing its unacceptable nature and deeply troubling implications.
Obi argued that organizing workshops abroad amidst economic hardship portrays a disregard for fiscal responsibility and prudent use of public funds. He stressed that at a time when Nigeria is grappling with inflation, currency devaluation, and a widening budget deficit, it is irresponsible to spend taxpayer money on extravagant overseas events.
The former Governor of Anambra State highlighted the need to prioritize domestic needs such as healthcare, education, infrastructure, and poverty alleviation, rather than squandering resources on luxury workshops abroad.
Furthermore, Obi pointed out that holding such events in London sends the wrong message to both the Nigerian populace and the international community, perpetuating the perception of government officials indulging in extravagance at the expense of ordinary citizens.
He stressed the importance of leveraging local expertise and resources, questioning the necessity and effectiveness of conducting workshops abroad when Nigeria boasts numerous highly qualified professionals capable of providing the required training and expertise.
Obi also raised concerns about transparency and accountability in government procurement processes, calling for a full disclosure of why London was chosen as the venue and how vendors and contractors were selected.
He emphasized the need for thorough investigation into any hint of impropriety or favoritism in awarding contracts for such events, asserting that in the envisioned new Nigeria, such frivolous spending would be unthinkable.
