Opposition Govs Accused of Diverting Palliatives, Fund Anti-Tinubu Protests

The Apostles of Jagaban, a pro-Tinubu group, has accused opposition governors of misusing Federal Government palliatives intended to alleviate the hardships faced by Nigerians.

In a statement released yesterday, the group’s National Chairman, Chief Gilbert Olokesusi, claimed that certain governors, particularly those from opposition parties, have misappropriated resources meant for their constituents. Olokesusi stated that these governors allegedly re-bagged rice provided by the Federal Government with their party logos and denied receiving the aid, which also included substantial financial support.

“As part of a relief initiative, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu recently provided each state, including the Federal Capital Territory, with 20 trailers of rice and a financial package of N100 billion. These measures were intended to support citizens during tough economic times,” the statement read.

Olokesusi further alleged that the funds allocated for relief were being diverted to finance anti-government protests, which have led to arrests related to vandalism and theft. He claimed that the opposition governors are using the N100 billion to sponsor protests under the banner “Tinubu must go.”

“The worm is multiplying by binary fusion, promising to kill the dog. If the dog dies, the worm will equally perish simultaneously,” Olokesusi said, using a metaphor to emphasize the potential consequences of the unrest.

He also criticized those involved in the protests, describing them as “violent looters masquerading as peaceful protesters.” According to Olokesusi, many of these individuals are now in detention for their involvement in criminal activities, while the children of their sponsors live in luxury in top hotels in Nigeria and abroad.

In response to the alleged misuse of the palliatives, Olokesusi called on President Tinubu to appoint liaison officers to ensure transparent and effective distribution, particularly in states governed by opposition parties.