We weren’t bribed to approve governor’s N350b bond – House of Assembly members
Members of the Taraba State House of Assembly have dismissed claims that they received a N150 billion bribe before approving a N350 billion bond for Governor Dr. Agbu Kefas.
The allegations were raised by the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC), led by party chieftain and former ambassador to Trinidad and Tobago, Ardo Jika.
The APC chieftain expressed concern over the approval of such a substantial loan without a clear plan for its utilization or repayment.
He also criticized the state government that despite an increase in federal allocations from N3 billion to N13 billion monthly and a rise in internally generated revenue (IGR), there was little visible progress.
Reacting to these claims, the lawmakers, through the House Committee Chairman on Information, Nelson Len, denied the allegations, describing them as “false and baseless.”
Addressing journalists in Jalingo on Saturday, Len defended the bond approval, arguing that “no government can operate successfully without collecting loans.”
He emphasized that the bond was legally presented to the House and that lawmakers did not receive any financial incentives before granting approval.
“The claim that we were given N150 billion is false, baseless, and misleading,” Len stated. “We approved the bond because it is aimed at fostering development in Taraba State. The funds will be accessed in N20 billion tranches and will be used for meaningful projects.”
The lawmakers also refuted allegations that they act as a rubber stamp for the governor, insisting that they remain independent and committed to serving the best interests of the people.
“We are not puppets to the governor,” Len declared, reiterating the Assembly’s role in ensuring accountability and transparency in governance.
