The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Niger State has launched a scathing criticism against Governor Mohammed Umar Bago's administration over the recent approval of a ₦70 billion bond by the Niger State House of Assembly.

According to the PDP's State Vice Chairman and Zonal Chairman for Niger North, Yahaya Abdullahi Ability, the bond approval represents "fiscal recklessness" and demonstrates insensitivity to the plight of Niger State citizens who are already burdened by economic hardship.

"Despite the state's dismal budget execution and huge existing debts, the government continues to borrow without tangible developmental outcomes to show for previous loans," Ability stated.

The Niger State House of Assembly had earlier approved Governor Bago's request for the ₦70 billion bond issuance, which is reportedly part of a planned ₦100 billion NCNI Private Bond Issuance with a 10-year maturity period. The funds are ostensibly meant to finance infrastructure projects across the state.

Before granting approval, the House Standing Committee on Finance Chairman, Aliyu Sheshi Wushishi, representing Wushishi Constituency, assured his colleagues that his committee had conducted a thorough review and consulted with relevant stakeholders.

However, the opposition party has questioned the necessity for additional borrowing, emphasizing that the state's infrastructure deficits require prudent management of existing resources rather than accumulating more debt.

"Governor Bago needs to prioritize responsible governance, accountability, and transparency in the management of state funds," Ability urged, calling on the administration to focus on addressing the pressing needs of the people rather than plunging the state further into debt.

The PDP's criticism comes at a time when many Nigerian states are grappling with significant debt burdens amid challenging economic conditions nationally. The opposition's stance highlights growing concerns about sustainable financing for development projects and the long-term implications of government borrowing on future generations.