Worried by litanies of complaints by concern Deltans over frequent borrowing amidst lamentation by pensioners, the Delta State Civil Society Community has demanded the current financial status of the state.
The call for the release of the financial status of the state was contained in a press statement titled; “DELTA STATE DRIFTING PRECARIOUSLY TOWARDS THE PRECIPICE” and endorsed by the president Dr. Martins Kedienhon alongside the Executives and other stakeholders.
It could be recalled that in the last one year the Okowa administration has at different times borrowed a N150billion naira termed a bridge finance, N25billion naira, N4billion naira, N20billion naira and is now seeking another N40billion naira loan from Fidelity Bank.
The group noted the growing concern over the frequent borrowing by the governor Ifeanyi Okowa led government without meaningful projects and said the call for the release of the financial status of the state was to enable citizens appraise the government using the financial position as a benchmark.
“We are equally concerned about the plight of pensioners who’s gratuity has not been paid for more than seven (7) years till date and civil servants who have remain stagnant for more than seven years without promotion. What is happening with full implementation and payment of all arrears of 33 per cent increase awarded in July 2010, which though implemented in October 2019 with an outstanding arrears of 99 months yet to be paid.
“Poor execution of public projects with many projects not funded five months to the end of tenure with the state loans piling up.”
The statement equally cautioned the government against interference with the candidates of political parties ahead of the general elections warning that such interference is capable of causing break down of law and order which could lead to loss of lives and property.
According to the group, a seven day ultimatum has been issued to the government to meet its demand otherwise the Civil Society Community maybe forced to seek redress at the law court.