Sam Philip
As the senator representing Ondo Northern Senatorial District marks his birthday on Saturday, some youths from his district have called to him to give account of the N4.5 billion constituency projects appropriated for the state in 2023 fiscal year.
The youth, under the umbrella of from Ondo North Youth Alliance, called for account of the projects in a statement jointly signed by the Executive Council of the group, Ojo Bright Eniafe, Mr. Olabode Feyijimi Micheal, Hon. Bakare Ibrahim Makonjuola and Ayejuyo Temitope, President, Secretary, P.R.O and Director of Special Duties respectively.
They expressed disappointment in the level of dividends of democracy being enjoyed by the people of the district the senator got to office.
The youths stated that it is imperative for the federal lawmaker to give account of the N4.5billion projects approved for the district by the Federal Government.
The statement reads in inter alia: “It is with gratitude to the Almighty God that we celebrate the birthday of Senator Olajide Ipinsagba. We, therefore, join all well wishers across the globe to celebrate his special day.
“We are, however, saddened by the ripple effect of failed project implementation that has continued to keep our people in a perilous state.
“It is important as we celebrate the birthday of the senator that our people should be celebrating, but obviously, the common man seeks solace only in our demand for accountability.
“The forgotten songs of heroes sang by those strangled by the lack of provision of the dividends of democracy by our distinguished senator.
“Those who have been further placed in penury by the actions of elected leaders, who rather than carry out their basic responsibility seeks weaponisation of poverty.
“Our concerns trickle down and remind us of the “Ambassadors of Poverty.” As the apex youth leadership of Ondo North, we have one gift and resolute resolve for our senator; that ours is to help in keeping campaign promises and aid accountability to the people.
“Those whom the power genuinely resides with who have now been suppressed and oppressed with their common wealth.
“We are appealing to the distinguished senator to tell us why he only spent N500 million on constituency project out of 4.5 Billion naira. The question is where is our 4 Billion Naira unaccounted for by the senator?
“We challenge the senator to a public debate, on this pressing issue. For the avoidance of doubt; we wish to cite one out of many projects, the very distinguished senator may wish to tell the world how he went about it.”