The Federation of Ekiti State Students’ Union has criticized the Ekiti State House of Assembly for planning a Canada trip costing over N250 million.
At a press conference in Ado-Ekiti, FESSU President Benjamin Onileowo called the trip “insensitive” given the economic challenges facing Nigeria, especially in education.
Onileowo shared that the seven-day trip is expected to include 18 Assembly members, five of their spouses, and four aides. He questioned the decision, suggesting that the funds could instead support students.
“N250 million could provide a N50,000 bursary for over 5,000 students of Ekiti State in their respective constituencies,” Onileowo said.
In his statement, he urged the lawmakers to reconsider the trip, noting that such a large expense is hard to justify while many families are struggling. “This is not the time for such an endeavor, especially when the state needs all hands to address pressing issues affecting the livelihood of the common man and our education sector,” he added.
The students’ union hopes lawmakers will rethink their plans and direct resources toward local needs, especially in supporting students across the state.
