A pressure group, the New Delta Coalition (NDC), has strongly criticized Delta State’s Commissioner for Finance, Chief Fidelis Tilije, over his recent claim that Delta is the financially strongest state in Nigeria.
The group described the statement as misleading and deceptive, arguing that the state is struggling financially despite its high revenue inflows.
Delta’s True Financial Position
According to Mr. Godwin Anaughe, who signed the statement on behalf of NDC, Delta State lags behind several others in key economic indicators such as Gross Domestic Product (GDP), Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), and financial sustainability.
The coalition cited verifiable statistics showing that:
- Lagos State leads with a GDP of ₦41.17 trillion
- Rivers State follows with ₦7.96 trillion
- Akwa Ibom and Imo States report ₦7.77 trillion and ₦7.68 trillion, respectively
- Delta State’s GDP stands at just ₦6.19 trillion, contradicting Tilije’s claim
“This claim is not only false but an insult to the intelligence of Deltans. The state’s financial struggles are evident, and no amount of propaganda can change the facts,” the statement read.
Where Is Delta’s Money Going?
Despite being one of the highest recipients of Federal Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) funds, the coalition argued that Delta State has little to show for its revenue.
“If the state’s resources were properly managed, its GDP should be at least three times its current level,” the group stated, accusing the government of reckless spending, mismanagement, and lack of transparency.
Comparisons With Other States
The NDC compared Delta’s financial handling with more fiscally responsible states like Edo and Anambra:
- Anambra State generated ₦42.04 billion in IGR, surpassing its ₦20.67 billion recurrent expenditure.
- Abia State generated ₦33.14 billion against an operating cost of ₦24.74 billion.
- Meanwhile, Delta’s budgeted IGR is ₦134.09 billion, but its recurrent expenditure stands at a massive ₦348.77 billion—an IGR-to-operating-expense ratio of just 38.4%.
“Delta State cannot even cover its personnel costs of ₦185.75 billion without relying on federal allocations. This is a clear sign of financial mismanagement,” the group emphasized.
The Impact on Deltans
The coalition warned that poor financial planning has led to:
- Stalled infrastructure projects
- Deteriorating healthcare and education
- Rising unemployment
- Increased poverty levels
“The people of Delta deserve better. The consequences of corruption and reckless governance are visible everywhere,” the statement added.
A Call for Transparency and Accountability
The NDC is urging Deltans to demand accountability from their leaders, stating that Tilije’s misleading statements are an attempt to cover up the government’s failures.
“We need a government that is focused on real economic growth, transparency, and financial responsibility—not one that thrives on propaganda,” the group concluded.
What’s Your Take?
Do you believe Delta State is as financially strong as the government claims? Join the conversation in the comments!
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