…Demands Presidential Action, Transparency on Subsidy Savings
By Peterside Rejoice Eneky
Senator Pam Mwadkon Dachungyang of Plateau North has issued a powerful call for urgent executive action to address what he described as Nigeria’s deepening security crisis, delayed budget execution, and lack of transparency in public finance.
In a candid media briefing with the National Assembly New Media Forum, Senator Pam painted a grim picture of life in rural northern Nigeria, where killings, displacement, and destruction by armed foreign assailants have become daily occurrences.
He also criticized the federal government’s handling of the fuel subsidy removal, questioning the whereabouts of the promised savings.
“There are turbulences in some areas, some are smooth, and others are comatose non-existent,” Senator Pam said. “People are suffering. Projects are stalled. The budget is not being implemented, and there’s a bottleneck in the Ministry of Finance.”
The senator’s remarks came amid growing national concern over insecurity in northern states. He shared disturbing accounts of communities being attacked by armed men who, according to residents, speak unfamiliar languages and possess more advanced weaponry than Nigerian security forces.
“Every day I receive calls someone has been killed, a village destroyed. These attackers aren’t just criminals. They’re organized, foreign, and better equipped than our military,” he said.
Pam urged the federal government to investigate how such individuals are gaining access into Nigeria, demanding accountability and border security reforms.
Senator Pam also took issue with the execution of the national budget, accusing the Ministry of Finance of failing to release funds for key projects. He pointed to the hardship faced by contractors and project beneficiaries across the country.
On the controversial removal of the fuel subsidy, which was billed as a means to redirect public funds into national development, Pam raised serious concerns.
“We were told that removing the subsidy would save money for development. So where is the money? Nigerians deserve an answer,” he said.
Pam did not spare the executive arm of government from criticism, urging President Tinubu to focus on merit and performance rather than loyalty in the appointment and retention of key officials.
“The President must put his eyes on the Ministry of Finance. You can’t keep people in office just because they’re your brother or ally. If they’re not performing, they should go,” he warned.
Amid ongoing political realignments, Pam also addressed rumors of defection, stating he remains loyal to his party but acknowledged that many politicians are under pressure.
“If you’re defecting to make a difference, that’s commendable. But if you’re doing it just to cling to power, then you’re not serious about serving the people.”
The senator concluded with a passionate plea for unity, good governance, and leadership driven by results not favoritism or sectional interests.
“We need leaders who want to work not to please anybody, but to move this country forward.”
Senator Pam’s bold statements are likely to resonate across political and civic spaces, as Nigerians continue to demand greater accountability, security, and economic stability from their leaders.