PDP to APC: Build infrastructure for jobs, not just for show

… Demands answers on high rate of poverty, hunger

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Bayelsa State, has again launched a fierce broadside against the All Progressive Congress (APC)- led government following the defence of the ₦100 billion stadium project under construction at Igbogene, Yenagoa Local Government Area.

The publicity secretary of the APC, James Wilson Inegite, had, in a statement reacting to the criticism of the stadium project by the PDP, defended the infrastructural projects of the Senator Douye Diri administration, insisting that it was designed to stimulate socio- economic development through sports tourism, youth empowerment,

and increased commercial activities.

However, in a swift reaction, the PDP publicity secretary, Ikaebimo Mark, expressed disappointment that the APC failed to address concerns over the worsening economic hardship confronting Bayelsans but chose to defend the Diri administration’s decision to commit ₦100 billion to the construction of a new stadium.

PDP pointed out that the APC opted to attack the opposition party rather than offer answers to Bayelsans on the increasing rate of poverty, hunger, and unemployment in the state.

According to the party, the position of the opposition party remains unchanged as it demands that the APC-led government should explore ways ‘’to create employment for our teeming youths, revive struggling businesses, and improve the purchasing power of ordinary Bayelsans.

‘’The PDP has never opposed infrastructure development. We recognise that roads, bridges, schools, hospitals, and sporting facilities are necessary for development. However, infrastructure development is most meaningful when it creates opportunities, improves living standards, and enhances the quality of life of the people. Infrastructure must catalyze economic growth, industrial expansion, private investment, job creation, and improved household incomes,’’ it added.

The opposition party maintained that Senator Diri’s disclosure that the 25,000-capacity stadium will cost over 100 billion naira naturally raises legitimate questions about priorities and value for public funds.

‘’Bayelsans deserve to know the project’s economic justification, its long-term sustainability, its expected returns, and the number of permanent jobs and business opportunities it will create beyond the hosting of occasional sporting events,’’ it stated.