The Peoples Redemption Party, PRP, in Enugu State has faulted Governor Peter Mbah's performance scorecard, demanding evidence that his administration's rising revenue and massive infrastructure investments have translated into improved living conditions for residents.
The party accused the governor of placing more emphasis on infrastructure and revenue growth than on critical welfare issues, including poverty reduction, job creation, household income and economic empowerment.
The PRP governorship candidate, Ray Kene Ogbodo, said this in a statement issued to journalists over the weekend through his media aide, Hon. Don Victor.
Ogbodo's reaction followed Mbah's presentation of his administration's manifesto performance update at Godfrey Okoye University, Enugu, on Thursday, where the governor highlighted achievements across various sectors since assuming office in May 2023.
Mbah claimed that his administration had made substantial progress in restoring Enugu's position as a destination for living, business, investment and tourism.
However, reacting to the presentation, Ogbodo questioned whether the reported increase in government revenue had translated into tangible economic benefits for ordinary residents.
He said: “The fundamental question remains: Are the people of Enugu becoming more prosperous, or is it mainly the government that is becoming wealthier?”
He argued that the state's reported internally generated revenue growth demanded greater transparency regarding its direct impact on households and small businesses.
“When government revenue increases dramatically, the people deserve to see corresponding improvements in their lives.
“How many families have escaped poverty? How many sustainable jobs have been created? How many struggling businesses have received meaningful support? These are the questions that should define a credible performance scorecard,” he said.
The PRP candidate acknowledged the importance of roads, schools, healthcare facilities and other infrastructure projects but insisted that physical development should not overshadow the immediate needs of residents.
Ogbodo further argued that public resources should be deployed to promote shared prosperity rather than concentrate the benefits of development among a privileged few.
“Our people must be alive, healthy and economically empowered to enjoy the infrastructure being built. A beautiful road means little to a family that cannot afford food," he said.
2027: PRP fires back at Gov Mbah over scorecard, questions impact of billions on Enugu residents