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House of Reps member, Hon. Onobu Expresses Worry Over PDP Crisis 

...Says, Strong Opposition Crucial for Healthy Democracy 

…Laments Drastic Reduction in Agricultural Sector in 2025 Budget

The member representing Esan Central/West/Igueben Federal Constituency, Edo State, Hon. Marcus Onobun, has expressed concerns over the leadership struggles within the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

He said it it surprising to see PDP having internal divisions and factionalism.

“It’s concerning to see the PDP in disarray, but it’s not surprising.

The immediate past Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly said opposition must prepare itself to challenge the ruling party constructively.

Speaking with some journalists in Abuja on Tuesday, Hon. Marcus Onobu said, “A strong opposition is crucial for holding the government accountable. Without it, even the best government can become complacent.”

On party affiliation, Hon. Onobun reaffirmed his commitment to the PDP but stressed that political parties should not be a barrier to serving the people.

“Politics is local, and our primary duty is to serve the people. Whether you belong to the PDP, APC, or any other party, the focus should be on delivering good governance and improving the lives of Nigerians,” he concluded.

On Edo State politics, Hon. Onobun criticized the state government for focusing on past leaders instead of addressing the current needs of the people.

“In Edo, we see a government that is preoccupied with criticizing former Governor Obaseki, rather than focusing on its own policies and programs for the future,” he said. “Edo people need governance that improves their lives, not a fixation on past figures.”

He also called for a more collaborative approach to governance, urging the current Edo State governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, to work with local leaders and experts to move the state forward.

“I haven’t had the chance to speak directly to the governor, but I hope that he focuses on governance. The people of Edo deserve a government that is working to meet their aspirations,” he noted.

Hon. Onobun further criticized the suspension of local government chairmen and vice chairmen, which he argued was not carried out according to due process.

“The constitution does not empower the state House of Assembly to unilaterally dissolve local government councils. The process must be transparent and follow the law,” he stated.

“The recent events in Edo reflect a lack of proper procedure and respect for the rule of law.”

For the 2025 national budget, the House of Representatives Committee Chairman on Agriculture and Rural Development said the drastic reduction in funding for the Ministry of Agriculture, could hinder the government’s efforts to stabilize the economy and address hunger.

Hon. Onobun emphasized the significance of 2025 as a year of high hopes for Nigerians, following a difficult 2023 and a year of palliatives in 2024.

“2025 is expected to be a year of hope, considering where we’re coming from. We all recall that in 2023, the government removed the subsidy, which led to significant economic instability. The cost of living soared, inflation skyrocketed, and Nigerians faced immense suffering,” Hon. Onobun stated.

“In 2024, the government had to implement palliatives to alleviate some of these challenges. But now, as we approach 2025, the budget estimates are a cause for concern.”

He pointed out that the budget for the Ministry of Agriculture, which received over 200 billion naira in 2024, has now been slashed to about 70 billion naira, a drastic decline that could affect the government’s capacity to address food insecurity and rural development.

“We have raised our concerns with the Appropriations Committee and have written to the executive, urging them to reconsider the allocation to agriculture. This is not the time for excuses; Nigerians need real solutions,” he added.

“We must ensure that the budget reflects the aspirations of the people, addressing food security and stabilizing the economy. We are committed to working with the executive to ensure that the 2025 budget meets the needs of Nigerians.”

On the reduction in the agricultural budget, Hon. Onobun described the situation as “shocking,” noting that the government must prioritize tangible solutions to the hunger and hardship that many Nigerians continue to face.

“Nigerians are no longer interested in excuses. They want change, and they want hope,” he said. “We need a budget that gives them confidence in their government. A budget that addresses their needs, not just political interests.”

As the 2025 budget discussions continue and political challenges unfold, Hon. Onobun remains hopeful that the government will prioritize the needs of the people, ensuring a better future for all Nigerians.

Prevail Inegbenose

Prevail Inegbenose is the News Correspondent of Spark News Daily - Nigeria's most sought-after online newspaper in Government, Politics, Sport, Entertainment and Religion. He is a graduate of Mass Communication with 17 years of active and practical journalism. Tel: 08039564796.

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