In a passionate address, Senator Dino Melaye, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for the upcoming Kogi governorship election, expressed his deep concern about the worsening poverty levels in the state. He highlighted the growing wealth disparity, where those in government thrive while the impoverished continue to suffer.
Melaye, during the reception of the party’s Policy Drafting Committee’s report in Abuja, pledged to usher in a new era for Kogi State if elected as governor. His ambitious plans include a comprehensive reform of the state’s civil service, substantial infrastructure improvements, and the establishment of an Independent Kogi Economic Development Commission.
One of his major promises is to ensure that civil servants receive their full salaries promptly, with payments scheduled for the 25th of every month. He voiced his determination to address the stark wealth gap that has left Kogi with only the rich and the poor, promising not to burden the underprivileged with additional taxes.
Melaye also accused the current state government of diverting funds meant for poverty alleviation programs, vowing to grant local governments financial autonomy to empower them to undertake development projects independently.
Highlighting the state’s untapped mineral resources, Melaye emphasized his commitment to harnessing and commercializing these assets to boost the state’s revenue. He revealed that Kogi boasts an impressive 52 mineral resources, including uranium, which remains largely untapped.
The senator stressed that federal allocations would be dedicated to civil servant-related expenses, such as salaries, pensions, gratuities, promotions, and training. The state’s internally generated revenue, according to his plans, would be channeled toward essential development projects without imposing additional financial burdens on the impoverished.
Commending the drafting committee for their thorough work, Melaye noted that the PDP was the only party addressing policy documents. He lauded the extensive policy recommendations contained within the report, stating that it represented a comprehensive solution book for the state’s challenges.
The Committee Chairman, Prof. Sam Amadi, echoed Melaye’s sentiments, emphasizing the transformative potential of the policy document. The document covers various sectors, including education, agriculture, local government administration, technology, communications, and tourism, aligning with Melaye’s vision for the state.
Amadi also stressed the need for an Independent Kogi Economic Development Commission, with members of unquestionable integrity, to oversee and ensure the commission’s independence, ensuring effective governance and accountability.
Senator Dino Melaye’s commitment to addressing poverty, reforming governance, and leveraging Kogi State’s abundant resources presents an ambitious vision for the future of the state, offering hope for a brighter tomorrow.
