Peter Obi, the Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general election, has strongly condemned the decision of the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation to host a workshop for State Commissioners of Finance in London. Obi described this action as insensitive and irresponsible, urging Nigerians to reject such recklessness.
In a statement shared on his social media handle, Obi expressed his dismay at the Office of the Accountant General’s decision, emphasizing that it reflects a blatant disregard for fiscal responsibility and prudent expenditure of public funds. He highlighted the pressing economic challenges facing Nigeria, including inflation, currency devaluation, and budget deficits, stating that such extravagant overseas workshops are unacceptable.
Obi stressed that resources allocated for workshops abroad should instead be directed towards addressing pressing domestic needs, such as healthcare, education, infrastructure, and poverty alleviation. He emphasized that hosting a workshop in London perpetuates the perception of government officials indulging in luxury at the expense of ordinary citizens, fostering elitism and detachment from the realities faced by Nigerians.
The former governor of Anambra State raised concerns about the necessity and effectiveness of conducting workshops abroad, particularly in expensive cities like London. He argued that Nigeria boasts numerous qualified professionals capable of providing the required training and expertise, and outsourcing such activities undermines local expertise and fails to leverage the country’s wealth of knowledge.