Human rights activist and lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, has condemned the Bayelsa State Government’s decision to award a N45 billion contract for the construction of a new secretariat complex, describing it as “outrageous” and “extravagant.” Adeyanju called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate the contract, raising concerns about transparency and accountability in the management of public funds.
In his criticism, Adeyanju expressed dismay that the Bayelsa State Government prioritized such large-scale spending on infrastructure over more pressing developmental needs, especially given the state’s financial challenges. He emphasized that the citizens of Bayelsa deserve to know how their resources are being managed.
“The EFCC must investigate the contract award process to ensure compliance with public procurement regulations and address any potential irregularities,” Adeyanju said.
He further highlighted the need for the EFCC to protect Nigeria’s financial integrity and hold public officials accountable for their spending decisions.
Adeyanju warned that lavish expenditures such as this erode public trust in the government and urged swift action from the EFCC to prevent what he termed an “egregious abuse of public funds.”