Economic Hardship: Entrepreneur Advocates Massive Cut In Government Expenditures
By Roland Ike
An Entrepreneur, Chief Anthony Ofoma has advised government at all levels to adopt a massive cut cost of governance as a way of effectively checking the present economic hardship in the country.
Speaking in an interview with newsmen in Abakaliki, the Ebonyi State capital Ofoma noted that there were much wastages in running governments in the country.
He said that funds saved when these cuts are made could be channeled towards enhancing the economy and ameliorating the hardship on the people.
“We see leaders presently engaging more than 20 Special Advisers among other aides and one wonders what they are advising.
“It is doubtful if various governments duly utilise their budgets due to unnecessary and inconsequential expenditures in governance.
“People have been severely impoverished and that is why they rejoice overwhelmingly when they are offered low grants.”
Ofoma said that offering grants for instance was not a panacea to the economic upheavals but massive reduction in governmental expenditure.
“Our leaders should drastically reduce the money they spend on aides, government house matters, security votes among others.
“A governor once declared that a trip from his state to Lagos and back costs about N20 million and one wonders the situation if such trips are made weekly.
“When governments become prudent and block wasteful leakages, the country will experience brighter days.”
He also advocated the implementation of the policy which seeks to merge several ministries and parastatals of government.
“Most of these ministries and parastatals duplicate functions which are not of any benefit the country.
“Merging them will result to increased productivity and economic enhancement,” Ofoma said.
