The Case for Enhanced Resources for State Governors
Paul A. Obi contends that states would significantly benefit from governors having greater access to resources.
History has much to teach us, but one of its most poignant lessons is humanity’s failure to learn from its past mistakes.
Amid the controversies surrounding President Bola Tinubu’s administration, one notable advancement stands out: the equitable distribution of federal revenues to states and local governments. Tinubu is an advocate for federalism, demonstrating his commitment to making Nigeria’s complex federal structure work. However, the performance of some state governors, particularly Prince Bassey Otu of Cross River State, does not reflect this newfound financial support. As we move beyond 2023, it is worth noting that no state governor, including Otu, can rightfully claim a lack of funds. At one point, President Tinubu urged citizens to hold their governors accountable, reaffirming the expectation that they leverage available resources for development rather than resist scrutiny.
One of the primary motivations for this accountability is the stark contrast between Cross River State’s meager developmental progress and the successes of other states utilizing federal funds effectively. States such as Akwa Ibom, Enugu, and Abia have made strides in industrialization and development. While Governor Otu has shown potential, particularly in his efforts to reclaim oil wells, the current administration’s achievements leave much to be desired. In a recent meeting with state officials, Otu outlined plans for improvements in infrastructure, agriculture, education, tourism, and social welfare, yet questions remain about tangible outcomes in recent years. The absence of completed infrastructure projects across the state indicates a troubling failure to effectively use federal financial resources.
In terms of healthcare, it is concerning that there are no prominent initiatives to modernize hospitals or improve the overall health sector. Disturbing images of outdated facilities, such as the Obubra General Hospital, have surfaced on social media, emphasizing a pressing need for reform. Furthermore, there is little evidence of a comprehensive energy plan aimed at fostering industrialization, akin to initiatives successfully implemented in Abia State. Reports suggest that some communities in Cross River remain without power for extended periods, underscoring the state’s neglect of essential utility improvements.
Road construction also remains a critical issue. While the state government seems focused on infrastructure projects in the southern senatorial district, other regions lag behind significantly. Roads such as Okuku-Mfon and the Ndoku Junction-Mbube route remain largely untouched, raising concerns about equitable development across the state. Notably, Governor Otu has reportedly delegated the oversight of these projects to his deputy, leading some to question the administration’s commitment to inclusive governance. The lack of involvement in crucial projects has sparked protests from youth in various regions, expressing their frustration over inadequate road conditions and demanding accountability from their leader.
Political tensions are mounting as the governor reportedly seeks the return of Mr. Kakum to the Nigerian Senate, a move that could undermine the state’s anticipated political cohesion. Amidst an environment void of significant political or economic achievements, the lack of federal appointments and failed initiatives in key industries such as cocoa and palm oil are telling indicators of a struggling administration. Despite being rich in resources, the state’s underperformance highlights a critical need for a reevaluation of governance strategies. The public’s growing dissatisfaction points to a lack of effective leadership and development initiatives.
The historical context of Cross River’s governance cannot be ignored. The previous tenures of Donald Duke and Liyel Imoke elevated the state’s profile on the global stage, contrasting sharply with the stagnation observed since Prince Otu’s administration began in 2015. The current wave of resource inflow could either prove transformative or simply perpetuate existing failures. Unless Governor Otu actively seeks to improve upon past shortcomings and develops a coherent strategy for sustainable growth, history may indeed repeat itself.
Obi is a lecturer, journalist, and researcher based in Abuja.
