Governor of Ekiti State, Ayodele Fayose yesterday urged urged the Federal Government to extend the budget support provision being given to state governments beyond one year.
The governor also urged the FG to consider including the local government staff in the scheme when extended.
Fayose made the call while meeting with teachers in the state at the government house in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State capital yesterday.
He said: “The budget support scheme which the state have been enjoying ended last May. In the wisdom of the Federal Government we want to appeal that one, they should extend the budget support beyond the one for the state and two, to include the local government staff in the next one.
“This is so if it is only the state that is getting support while the local government are not getting it will cause disparity between these two tiers of government. So, we are appealing to the FGTO consider the two tiers of government in the budget support scheme.”
On attitude of local government staff, he said: “I want to urge the local government staff to ensure that they go to their office and work. As much as we love them, we want equally them to be responsible. To whom much is given, much is expected. Since they have been called to serve, they should serve well.”
Explaining why he held the meeting with the teachers, he said: “By this meeting I have been able to sensitize them on facts surrounding the financial status of the state. I have been able to tell them that the Paris club refund coming to the state is half of what came the last time and cannot do much.
“The impression being given that it is to payall salaries and emoluments of workers is wrong. How can this meagre amount coming pay all outstanding salaries of four to five months, including leave bonus, pensioners etc.
“To me that impression being created is a blackmail to put governors on the spot. So, I feel it is neccesary to put the records straight. My people know that I don’t lie to them.
“I have explained to them about what we are expecting and I have also told them that when the money comes, I will invite them again on its sharing modalities and to know how we can take care of what their top priorities are.”
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