Governor Bassey Otu has approved a vehicle grant of ₦10 million each for the 196 ward councillors across Cross River State, amounting to a total expenditure of approximately ₦1.96 billion.
The approval is intended to enhance the mobility and operational capacity of councillors, enabling them to better perform their legislative duties and effectively engage with constituents across their respective wards.
As the elected representatives closest to the grassroots, councillors play a critical role in local governance, community development, and oversight of projects within their constituencies. The state government believes that improved transportation will strengthen their ability to discharge these responsibilities more efficiently.
The development has generated widespread reactions among residents and stakeholders across the state. Supporters of the initiative argue that councillors require adequate logistical support to effectively represent their communities, monitor government projects, and maintain regular contact with constituents.
According to proponents, the vehicle grant demonstrates the administration's commitment to strengthening local government institutions and improving governance at the grassroots level.
However, the approval has also sparked debate in public circles, with some critics questioning the timing and scale of the expenditure amid ongoing socio-economic challenges. They argue that greater priority could be given to sectors such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, youth empowerment, and social welfare.
Despite the differing views, the approval represents one of the most significant welfare interventions for local legislators in Cross River State in recent years. Political observers say the decision could further strengthen collaboration between the state government and local legislative councils.
The vehicle grant underscores Governor Otu's continued emphasis on grassroots governance and local government administration as key components of his development agenda.
As implementation begins, public attention is expected to remain focused on the impact of the initiative and its implications for governance and service delivery across the state's 196 wards.
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