Okpebholo Laments: Councilors Unpaid Allowances Two Years Into Office

In a recent report from Symfoni TV, Monday Okpebholo, a key leader within the People Democratic Party (PDP), has spoken out about the recent removal of chairpersons in PDP-controlled local government areas (LGAs) and the appointment of councillors as administrators.

In his speech, Okpebholo referred to the broader political landscape, citing former President Muhammadu Buhari’s recent comments on local government operations. He noted that the president had recognized the importance of local government, despite their administrative ties to state governors. “If you look at Mr. President’s speech, he recognizes the local government,” Okpebholo said.

Okpebholo also highlighted the Former president’s advice to governors, urging them to collaborate with local government chairpersons. “Even though the local government belongs to the governors, he also advised the governors to go through the chairmen—that is a man of wisdom,” Okpebholo remarked.

He expressed his willingness to work collaboratively with local government officials to ensure their progress, adding, “I am ready to walk with you people. I am ready to see that you progress and local government progress.”

Despite these positive intentions, Okpebholo criticized the lack of progress in some areas, particularly the failure to provide councillors with their due entitlements. “It is painful to know that after two years in office, or a year plus, that even some of your councillors have not received their allowances,” he said.

He encouraged local government officials to formally document these issues, assuring them that their concerns would be addressed. “Please, I want you to put those things in writing. You will get it. You have full power as local government chairman,” Okpebholo added.

Okpebholo also reassured local government officials that the commission would support them in carrying out their duties. “The commission will cooperate with you people to carry out your duty diligently. Nobody will touch you because you are under the law,” he stated.

In a final appeal, Okpebholo urged local government leaders to focus on grassroots development. “The best way to go is to do the grassroots work. We have to go back now,” he said.

He emphasized that the resources allocated to local governments should be used for the public good, rather than for personal gain. “The money that belongs to the local government does not belong to you personally. It belongs to the grassroots,” Okpebholo concluded.