The Northern senators Forum has raised issues over the discrepancy between the budget approved by the Nigerian Senate and the budget being implemented
Senator Ningi who spoke on behalf of the forum on Saturday in a BBC Hausa program monitored in Abuja emphasized that the particular case is the most significant instance of budget padding to occur in Nigerian history under the leadership of Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
He stated, “For the first time in Nigerian history, we are currently operating with two distinct budgets. The National Assembly approved a budget of ₦25 trillion, whereas the Federal Government is operating with a budget of ₦28 trillion.”
“Apparently, we have discovered that ₦3 trillion has been inserted into the budgets without any specified allocations.”
“As representatives of the people, we have resolved to meet with President Tinubu to address this matter and present him with the facts and figures. We intend to ascertain whether he is aware of this embarrassing situation and take appropriate action thereafter.”
“Let the Nigerian people exercise patience with us. This is a national issue that affects all Nigerians, regardless of political party, ethnicity, or religion,” he added.
Recall however, that the N27.5trn ‘Renewed Hope’ budget for 2024 passed second reading at the Senate.
It has since been referred to the Committee on Appropriations after a voice vote by the Deputy Senate President, Jibrin Barau, who presided over the session.
The Committee is Chaired by Senator Solomon Adeola (APC Ogun West).
Speaking on the matter Senator Patrick Ndubueze (Imo North) said “I don’t have the knowledge of such a report or rumor. Until they bring it to our knowledge we can now know the truth.
“I heard the northern Senators hired a consultant to look into the budget. But we have not done that. The Igbos or Southeast has not done so. So, if they comment is because they have a consultant, or a consultant-review of the budget
“For us we don’t have a consultant and we have not reviewed the budget yet.”