This Process of Sending Money to the Poor Is Corruption” — Somi Uranta

Lagos — Social commentator and governance analyst, Somi Uranta, has described the Federal Government’s cash transfer programs to the poor as a channel of corruption and financial mismanagement, questioning the transparency and credibility of the process.

Speaking during a live discussion on VOP TV, Uranta criticized the continuous distribution of cash to citizens under various social intervention schemes — a practice initiated by past administrations — insisting that the system lacks accountability and verifiable data.

“This process of sending money to the poor, started by past administrations, is corruption because you cannot account for the people who received the money. How did they even get the list of beneficiaries?” Uranta asked.

He noted that without proper identification, monitoring, and auditing mechanisms, such programs only serve as political tools rather than genuine poverty-alleviation efforts.

According to Uranta, the absence of a reliable national database makes it nearly impossible to confirm whether the funds actually reach the intended beneficiaries.

“We are in a country where millions don’t even have digital records, yet government officials claim to have sent billions to the poor. It’s a smokescreen — and it must stop,” he said.

Uranta called on the government to replace the cash transfer approach with sustainable empowerment initiatives, such as skill development, local industry support, and investment in small businesses.

“If you want to lift people out of poverty, create opportunities — not dependency,” he added.

His remarks come amid growing criticism of Nigeria’s social welfare programs, with analysts calling for a comprehensive audit of funds disbursed under the poverty-alleviation scheme.