Bayelsa: PDP criticises ₦100bn stadium project, demands joobs creating developmentThe Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Bayelsa has renewed its criticism of the expenditure of ₦100 billion on stadium project, saying residents need infrastructure that creates jobs and strengthens the local economy.The opposition party said the project, being executed by the APC-led administration at Igbogene in Yenagoa Local Government Area, raises concerns over priorities and value for public funds.In a statement on Wednesday, the PDP Publicity Secretary, Ikaebimo Mark, said people of Bayelsa deserve projects that stimulate businesses, create employment and promote inclusive economic growth.Mark argued that the government has failed to address rising hunger, poverty and unemployment despite increased revenue accruing to the state.He said the proposed 25,000-capacity stadium has sparked legitimate questions over its economic benefits, long-term sustainability and expected returns.According to him, criticism of the project should not be dismissed through name-calling, insisting that Bayelsa people deserve answers on worsening unemployment and declining household incomes.”The PDP has never opposed infrastructure development,” Mark said.He noted that roads, bridges, schools, hospitals and sports facilities remain essential but should directly improve livelihoods, create jobs and attract private investment.Mark urged the government to explain how the stadium would generate permanent employment and business opportunities beyond hosting occasional sporting events.He also called for assurances that Bayelsa professionals, contractors, artisans, suppliers and businesses would benefit from the project’s execution.The PDP maintained that public investments should strengthen indigenous capacity and ensure government spending circulates within the state’s economy.The party also dismissed claims that sports remain the administration’s major youth empowerment strategy.It argued that the condition of the Samson Siasia Sports Complex reflects inadequate investment in sports infrastructure.Mark called for broader economic policies focused on industrialisation, agriculture, entrepreneurship, skills development and improved access to finance.He also criticised the state’s transport system, describing it as ineffective and dominated by unregulated commercial tricycle operators.The statement further lamented inadequate access to potable water, claiming residents of Yenagoa still depend largely on water vendors for domestic supply.According to the PDP, a state heavily reliant on monthly federal allocations cannot justify spending ₦100 billion on a stadium primarily to host the National Sports Festival.The opposition maintained that infrastructure should serve as a catalyst for commerce, private investment, sustainable jobs and improved living standards.It urged the Douye Diri-led administration to launch a comprehensive Economic Recovery, Wealth Creation and Food Security Initiative with measurable employment and investment targets.The PDP reaffirmed its commitment to constructive opposition, pledging to support policies that improve residents’ welfare while holding the government accountable.It added that accountability remains a fundamental pillar of democracy and good governance.
