Ogun State Citizens Urge 10th Assembly to Address Constituency Allowance Issues

In a heartfelt open letter addressed to the members of the Ogun State 10th House of Assembly, Amb. Olayemi Paul, Founder and National President of the Yapi Foundation, expressed growing concerns regarding the prolonged absence of constituency allowances for lawmakers. As the year draws to a close, he emphasized the urgent need for legislators to consider the welfare of their constituents and the impact of their actions, or lack thereof, on the community.

Amb. Paul began his letter by extending season's greetings to the Assembly members, hoping that they would finish the year on a positive note. He reminded them that their election to office was not just a privilege but also a responsibility to serve the people who entrusted them with their votes. He pointed out that for over five years, the state has grappled with the issue of no constituency allowance, leaving many citizens disillusioned with their representatives.

The letter highlighted the frustrations of constituents who have not seen any development projects initiated by their elected officials. Amb. Paul questioned how lawmakers could make a positive impact in their constituencies without adequate funding for projects, especially when their salaries and allowances are insufficient to drive development.

He expressed that the citizens of Ogun State had high hopes for the 10th Assembly, believing it was not merely a one-party system but a collaborative effort between the ruling and opposition parties. He called for a commitment to meaningful representation, urging members to work towards creating better laws that foster infrastructural development, job creation, quality education, and affordable healthcare.

Amb. Paul's letter further challenged the Assembly members regarding their inaction on the constituency allowance issue. He pointed out that while they receive their salaries and other allowances promptly, the lack of constituency funding continues to hinder their ability to serve effectively. He emphasized that without this essential funding, the Assembly cannot truly represent the needs of the people.

The founder of the Yapi Foundation recalled previous calls for action during the leadership of former Speaker Rt. Hon. Taiwo Oluomo, urging the current leadership under Rt. Hon. Oludaisi Olusegun Elemide to prioritize the realization of constituency allowances. He expressed disappointment that, despite a change in leadership, the situation remains unchanged, with no positive news regarding the disbursement of these crucial funds.

Amb. Paul raised concerns about the perceived complacency of both ruling and opposition party members in the Assembly. He questioned whether the opposition was truly advocating for the interests of the people or merely conforming to the prevailing party loyalty. He called for accountability, urging each member to reflect on their achievements and contributions to their constituencies beyond what they have facilitated through the state government.

In closing, he urged the citizens of Ogun State to become more actively involved in holding their representatives accountable. He emphasized that the time has come for the people to direct the Assembly on what should be done on their behalf. Amb. Paul expressed hope that such demands would awaken the Assembly to its responsibilities, ensuring that the 10th Assembly lives up to the expectations of the citizens it represents.

As the new year approaches, the eyes of Ogun State citizens remain fixed on their elected officials, eagerly awaiting the changes and improvements they hope to see in their communities through the efforts of the 10th Assembly.