The Guardian Nigeria Newspaper has taken to it’s official X handle formerly known as Twitter and pointed out that the Bauchi State Government has sparked widespread criticism following its proposal to allocate N400 million in the 2025 budget for the purchase of just six computers for the office of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG). This staggering expenditure has been met with public outrage, especially in a nation grappling with harsh economic realities.
In addition to this controversial allocation, the government has also proposed N1 billion for the purchase of land for office and building construction and N170 million for a generator to power the SSG’s office.
Misplaced Priorities Amid Economic Hardship
Public affairs analyst Ibrahim Musa lambasted the proposed allocations, describing them as an example of gross financial mismanagement. Speaking on the matter, Musa said:
“Everyone would believe that prudence should begin with the government, but the reverse seems to be the case. How can you justify spending N400 million on six computers when millions of Nigerians are struggling to afford basic necessities?”
Musa further criticized the recurrent pattern of inflated capital expenditures by the Bauchi State Government, calling it a betrayal of the sacrifices demanded from citizens.
“This amount could build at least six primary healthcare centers, bringing much-needed services closer to the people. Instead, the government continues to engage in wastage, eroding public trust,” he added.
This proposed budget comes at a time when many Nigerians are reeling from the biting impact of recent government economic policies, including subsidy removal and rising inflation. Critics argue that such extravagant allocations deepen public skepticism about the government’s commitment to addressing pressing socio-economic issues.
The announcement has also drawn attention to the broader issue of transparency in public spending. Activists and analysts are urging the Bauchi State Government to publish a detailed breakdown of how six computers could possibly cost N400 million.
Musa emphasized the need for the government to refocus its priorities on projects that would directly improve the lives of its citizens.
> “The government must cut down on wastage and direct funds to impactful projects like healthcare, education, and infrastructure. These are the investments that will truly uplift the people of Bauchi,” Musa said.
This budgetary controversy is just one of many instances highlighting the challenges of governance in Nigeria. The call for fiscal discipline and accountability grows louder as citizens demand a government that prioritizes their welfare over questionable expenditures.
Observers argue that this incident should serve as a wake-up call for Bauchi State and other government bodies to reevaluate their spending habits and adopt policies that promote transparency, efficiency, and real development. Whether or not the Bauchi State Government heeds this call remains to be seen.
In a nation desperate for growth and equity, extravagance like this not only fuels public outrage but also deepens the trust deficit between the government and its people.
PIONEER NEWS 