Adamawa’s 19.7 Billion Naira Blunder: Governor Fintiri’s Market Gamble Sparks Public Outrage

In a move that has ignited widespread criticism and concern, Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State has approved the expenditure of 19.7 billion naira of taxpayers’ money to build a new market—a decision many see as a glaring misstep in prioritizing the needs of the people.

For a state grappling with significant healthcare challenges, this decision has left citizens and observers baffled. At a time when Adamawa urgently needs well-equipped hospitals across its three senatorial zones, the governor’s focus on constructing a market has raised serious questions about the administration’s priorities.

Zachariah C. Hyellamada PhD. a concerned citizen and vocal advocate for the people of Adamawa, has voiced the collective displeasure of the populace, challenging the governor’s rationale for such a decision. “The citizens of Adamawa State do not need a market right now; what we urgently need are hospitals that can address the alarming state of healthcare across our regions,” Dr. Hyellamada stated.

The decision to use public funds for a market that could be developed through private sector investment, particularly via a Public-Private Partnership (PPP), has only added to the outrage. PPPs are a well-established mechanism for developing infrastructure without draining public resources, a practice that has seen success across various states in Nigeria. Yet, Adamawa appears to lag behind, with no significant PPP initiatives in place.

“It is inexcusable that a state like Adamawa has neither a PPP policy document nor a single implemented PPP project,” Dr. Hyellamada lamented. “Across Nigeria, markets are built by private organizations in partnership with state governments. Why should Adamawa be any different?”

Dr. Hyellamada’s concerns are shared by many who question the motive behind prioritizing a market over the dire need for healthcare facilities. With healthcare systems in Adamawa already stretched thin, the decision to allocate 19.7 billion naira for a less critical project has only deepened the public’s suspicion and discontent.

In a bold move, Hyellamada and the Adamawa Integrity Group have called upon the Commissioner of Trade, Commerce, and Industries to publicly disclose the bidding process that led to this substantial allocation. “Transparency is a constitutional right,” Dr. Hyellamada asserted, demanding full access to the documents and processes that culminated in the governor’s decision.

This growing call for accountability and transparency reflects a broader sentiment among the people of Adamawa who feel their needs are being ignored in favor of projects that do not directly benefit them. The clamor for hospitals, schools, and improved infrastructure continues to grow louder, with many urging Governor Fintiri to reconsider his priorities.

As the controversy surrounding this project intensifies, the question remains: Will the governor listen to the voices of his constituents and redirect funds to the areas that truly matter, or will Adamawa continue down a path of misplaced priorities?