Chairman of the Northern Senators Forum, Senator Abdul Ningi, has, in a stunning disclosure, raised alarm regarding a significant disparity between the budget approved by the National Assembly and the one being implemented by the Presidency.
Speaking to the British Broadcasting Corporation, (BBC) Hausa Service, Senator Ningi revealed that while the National Assembly had sanctioned a budget of ?25 trillion, signed by President Bola Tinubu, the Federal Government is operating with a budget of ?28 trillion. This discrepancy, he said, points to an alarming ?3 trillion surplus that was inserted into the Budget without proper allocation.
This is the most egregious case of budget-padding in Nigerian history, remarked Senator Abdul Ningi, directing blame towards Senator Akpabio, who oversaw the process.
Expressing grave concern over the severity of the situation, Ningi said, We, as representatives of the people, have resolved to meet with President Tinubu to present him with the facts and figures surrounding this debacle, and inquire whether he is aware of this embarrassment or not. Based on his response, appropriate action will be taken.
Senator Ningi urged Nigerians to exercise patience, emphasising the nationwide ramifications of the issue, irrespective of political affiliations, tribes, or religions.
The revelation of such a staggering discrepancy has ignited widespread apprehension and demands for accountability within the Nigerian government.
As the controversy unfolds, all eyes are fixed on President Tinubu and the authorities to address the matter swiftly and restore transparency in the budgeting process.
