Nigerian Students Condemn Ekiti Lawmakers Over Proposed N250million Canada Trip Amid Hardship

The Federation of Ekiti State Students’ Union (FESSU) on Tuesday condemned the Ekiti State House of Assembly (EKHA) over a proposed trip to Canada, which is estimated to cost over N250 million.

Speaking at a press conference in Ado-Ekiti, the President of FESSU, Benjamin Onileowo, called the trip “insensitive,” pointing out the severe economic challenges facing the state, especially in the education sector.

Onileowo said the trip would cover the expenses of 18 lawmakers, five spouses, and four aides for a seven-day visit.
He argued that if the funds were redirected, it could provide N50,000 bursaries for over 5,000 students in Ekiti’s constituencies.

“This trip represents misplaced priorities while students and the general populace are struggling,” Onileowo stated, marking the six-month anniversary of his administration.

He noted the urgency of addressing issues such as inadequate funding for education and poverty, instead of spending taxpayer money on luxury trips abroad.

According to Onileowo, “We must unequivocally state that the proposed self-funded trip to Canada by the Ekiti State House of Assembly is poorly conceived.
“This is not the right time for such an endeavour, particularly when the state urgently needs the collective effort of all stakeholders to tackle critical issues affecting the livelihoods of ordinary citizens and to restore our education sector.

“Our lawmakers intend to spend over N250 million on a seven-day overseas trip, involving 18 members, 5 spouses, and 4 aides—totalling 27 people.

“We strongly condemn this move and urge a reassessment of such a decision. The N250 million could instead fund a N50,000 bursary for over 5,000 students across Ekiti State in their respective constituencies,” Onileowo added.