In a recent statement, activist and political analyst Usman Okai Austin has urged Nigerians to demand transparency and accountability from their state governors with the same intensity they apply to questioning members of the National Assembly and the Presidency.
Emphasizing the importance of engaging governors on critical issues affecting their states, especially amidst the current economic challenges faced by many Nigerians, Okai stressed the need for citizens to hold their governors to the same level of scrutiny as other government officials.
While acknowledging the efforts of President Bola Tinubu in explaining his policies, despite not being his preferred candidate, Okai criticized the lack of transparency and accountability displayed by many state governors.
Questioning the tendency of governors to avoid public accountability, particularly on economic and governance matters, Okai noted the disparity in how national leaders and governors address public concerns.
Highlighting the public outcry over senators’ financial entitlements, Okai pointed out that while lawmakers interact more with their constituents despite their high earnings, governors are often accused of mismanagement and corruption.
He challenged governors to be more open about state finances and urged citizens to demand answers and accountability for their leaders’ actions.
Asserting that citizens have the right to expect the same standards of governance from state governors as they do from national leaders, Okai urged for a more proactive approach in ensuring that governors work in the best interest of the people.