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COPDEM media officer faults FG’s N8 billion allocation for anti-vandalism campaign

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The Media and Publicity Officer of the Coalition for the Protection of Democracy (COPDEM), Delta State, Hon. IG Amaechi Okoro, has criticized the Federal Government’s decision to allocate N8 billion for campaigns and advocacy against vandalism of power infrastructure.

Speaking to Diaspora digital media (DDM) from Delta, Hon. Okoro described the allocation as exorbitant and insensitive, particularly at a time when Nigerians are grappling with severe economic hardship.

According to him, the funds could have been better utilized in addressing pressing national issues or invested directly in power infrastructure.

“We acknowledge the importance of protecting critical infrastructure, but dedicating N8 billion to campaigns and advocacy during a period of extreme economic hardship is disheartening.

Millions of Nigerians are struggling with poverty, inflation, and unemployment. Such spending does not resonate with the democracy we tirelessly advocate for,” he stated.

Hon. Okoro argued that the allocation is a misstep and called on the Federal Government to explore cost-effective alternatives.

He suggested that funds should be redirected toward strengthening security around power installations, empowering host communities, and upgrading power infrastructure.

He emphasized that empowering local communities with jobs and amenities would encourage residents to take ownership of public infrastructure, thereby reducing acts of vandalism while addressing economic challenges.

“Spending N8 billion on advocacy campaigns while many Nigerians cannot afford basic necessities or even access consistent electricity is both insensitive and counterproductive.

This allocation does not reflect the principles of democracy, which prioritize the welfare of the people,” he added.

Hon. Okoro also appealed to the Federal Government to manage the country’s resources with empathy and accountability, urging them to reconsider the allocation.

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He insisted that such funds should be invested in healthcare, education, employment generation, or directly improving power supply infrastructure, which would have a more immediate and tangible impact on the lives of Nigerians.

The COPDEM media officer further reiterated the coalition’s commitment to holding the government accountable and ensuring that public policies align with the needs and aspirations of the people.

“Let us make decisions that reflect the democracy we advocate for—a democracy that is for the people, by the people, and genuinely in their interest,” Hon. Okoro concluded.

The Federal Government had earlier disclosed that the N8 billion allocation would be used for advocacy efforts, including town hall meetings, engagements with community leaders, media campaigns, and the incorporation of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) projects in host communities.

However, COPDEM questioned the necessity and scale of such expenditure amidst widespread poverty and growing public discontent.

As Nigerians continue to debate the allocation, COPDEM call for prudent management of national resources grows louder, with many echoing Hon. Okoro’s plea for the government to have mercy on the common wealth of the people.


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