Kebbi Governor Approves ₦2.185 Billion Entitlement for Former Councillors

Kebbi State Governor, Dr. Nasir Idris, has approved the sum of ₦2.185 billion for the payment of entitlements owed to former councillors who served between 2004 and 2024 across the state’s 21 local government areas. The Chairman of the Kebbi State Councillors’ Forum, Hon. Bello Gulumbe, confirmed the development and described it as a long-awaited relief for many ex-councillors who had been denied their dues by past administrations. According to him, the governor directed that a portion of the approved amount be paid immediately, while the remaining balance will be disbursed before the end of July 2025. Gulumbe commended the governor for what he called a historic and commendable step, noting that previous administrations had consistently ignored the entitlements of local government legislators. He stated that the payment covers allowances and benefits accrued over the past 20 years. “This is a promise fulfilled. For years, our members have been neglected. Today, we see a new dawn under Governor Nasir Idris,” Gulumbe said at a press briefing in Birnin Kebbi. The Kebbi State Elders’ Consultative Forum also welcomed the governor’s approval but cautioned against the politicisation of the gesture. In a statement issued on Thursday, the forum urged politicians and interest groups to maintain civility in public discourse, especially on social media, warning that inflammatory comments could destabilise the peace in the state. The payment is expected to provide financial relief to hundreds of former councillors and stimulate economic activity in various communities. It is also viewed by political observers as a move that could boost Governor Idris’s political capital in the state. Calls have been made for transparency and fairness in the distribution of the funds, with stakeholders urging the relevant authorities to ensure that all eligible beneficiaries receive their entitlements without delay.