The Nigerian Senate has dismissed allegations of padding the 2024 budget by over ₦3 trillion, countering the assertions made by Abdul Ningi, chairman of the Northern Senators Forum. Despite the denials, Ningi insisted that the budget approved by the National Assembly was N25 trillion, while President Bola Tinubu operates a purported N28 trillion budget, raising concerns about the whereabouts of the additional ₦3 trillion.
In a BBC Hausa Service interview, Ningi stated, “There are a lot of things. We are coming up with a report, and we will show the president himself and ask him if he is aware or not.” The Northern Senators Forum is reportedly reviewing the budget through consultants and plans to present its findings to President Tinubu.
Yemi Adaramodu, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Publicity, refuted the allegations, asserting that there is no budget padding. Adaramodu emphasized that the budget processes were transparent, with presentations and approvals conducted in the public eye. He reassured the public that the 2024 appropriation law would be strictly executed under rigorous legislative oversight.
Ningi, however, extended his criticism beyond budgetary matters, lamenting that President Tinubu’s leadership had worsened the country’s difficulties. He highlighted unfulfilled promises, neglect of crucial projects like the Ajaokuta and Mambila power projects, and disappointment in the administration’s approach to critical infrastructure. Additionally, Ningi raised concerns about the challenges faced by the opposition in the North, citing religious and tribal considerations hindering Northerners from assuming leadership roles within the opposition.
