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Lawmakers from Ekiti State are facing backlash for organizing an international retreat in Brampton, Ontario, Canada, scheduled for November 2024.
A letter from the Clerk of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Titilope Agbede, revealed that the retreat aims to enhance legislators’ skills in navigating complex policy issues and includes engagement with the Ekiti Kete Association in Canada.
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The letter, dated October 18, 2024, addressed to Barrister Adesina, the President of Ekiti Kete Canada, stated that the event seeks to equip lawmakers with knowledge to tackle policy implementation challenges.
The letter outlined the plan: “Members of Ekiti State House of Assembly and Officials, led by the Rt. Hon. Speaker, Honourable Adeoye Stephen Aribasoye, will attend an Executive Legislative Leadership Retreat in Brampton, Ontario. As part of our visit, the House intends to have a courtesy meeting with the Ekiti Kete Association to promote cultural development and governance.”
However, the announcement has drawn widespread criticism on social media, with many Nigerians condemning the timing of the trip amidst ongoing economic struggles in the country.
Reactions include:
@imOlatunj suggested, “Instead of this trip, why not enroll them in Afe Babalola University for leadership courses? Many politicians seem unaware of their responsibilities.”
@teebabah commented, “Let’s just say that Ekiti as a state is not thriving.”
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@djokaymegamixer highlighted, “The poverty in Ekiti is stark, and yet state resources are being used for this trip. It’s unfortunate that self-serving leaders continue to govern.”
@AdekunleOderind questioned, “How can this travel be justified? They could easily have online training, especially when people are struggling to make ends meet.”
@enitioluwafe expressed, “If true, this is a gross misuse of limited resources. For a governor who claims the state can’t meet the minimum wage, this is simply cruel.”
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@godblezme added, “Taxpayer money is being wasted. In 2024, these conferences could be held remotely, yet they choose to travel. It’s clear what’s happening here.”
@tarimartins10 remarked, “People in Ekiti sold their votes for N5k, so they must accept the consequences.”
@wilex_williams raised concerns about the inclusion of officials’ spouses on the trip, asking why they would accompany their partners on a government-funded visit.
