The Ekiti State Government has recently faced intense scrutiny due to allegations of corruption and financial mismanagement in agricultural land-clearing projects.
Critics are increasingly vocal about their concerns, demanding accountability from state officials regarding these issues.
Moreover, the controversy revolves around significant discrepancies in the reported costs associated with clearing land for farming. As a result, many stakeholders are questioning the transparency and integrity of the decision-making processes within the government.
In November 2024, the government announced it had approved ₦264,800,000 for clearing 200 hectares of land.
This amounts to ₦2.648 million per hectare, raising concerns among citizens and agricultural stakeholders regarding the high costs involved.
Moreover, the government has complicated matters by offering farmers a 50% discount on land preparation costs. As a result, this new rate of ₦100,000 per hectare indicates a total market value of ₦200,000, contrasting sharply with the earlier clearing costs.
Furthermore, the stark price difference—₦2.648 million for clearing versus ₦200,000 for preparation—creates a puzzling gap of ₦224,800,000. This discrepancy fuels controversy and raises additional questions among the public, demanding clarification.
The situation intensified when the government recently allocated ₦2,211,157,000 for clearing another 1,300 hectares of land. Notably, this implies a reduced cost of approximately ₦1,700,890 per hectare, which remains inconsistent with the previously cited market prices for ploughing and ridging. Such inconsistencies raise suspicions of inflated budgets and possible misappropriation of public funds.
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In response to these allegations, the Ekiti State Bureau of Public Procurement has issued a statement denying any wrongdoing.
Critics argue that the reported numbers raise serious concerns that thorough investigations cannot dismiss.
Civil society groups and concerned citizens demand that the government provide a detailed breakdown of expenditures, seeking clarity. This push for transparency ensures citizens understand how the government allocates and spends funds.
Moreover, transparency advocates emphasize the need for accountability in public spending. This demand for accountability is especially important in a state where agriculture significantly contributes to both economic growth and food security for residents.
“The discrepancies in these figures are too glaring to ignore,” stated a local activist. “The government owes it to the people of Ekiti State to explain how these funds are being utilized.”
As public outrage thus grows, calls for an independent audit into the state’s agricultural projects have intensified. Many believe such an investigation is necessary to restore public trust and make sure that funds are used effectively and ethically.
The Ekiti State Government has yet to provide a comprehensive explanation for the discrepancies in its financial reports. In the meantime, the people of Ekiti State await answers and accountability from their leaders.
