Amidst escalating allegations of budget padding, the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Sen. Atiku Bagudu, staunchly defended the National Assembly's recent actions regarding the 2024 budget. Addressing reporters in Abuja, Bagudu emphasized that the Assembly's modifications did not violate existing laws, citing longstanding practices dating back to 1999.
Bagudu illuminated the customary nature of the Assembly's interventions in budgetary matters, particularly in the inclusion of new line items aimed at addressing constituency needs. These alterations, he argued, represent a necessary response to the demands faced by elected representatives in serving their constituencies.
The controversy intensified following accusations leveled against Senate President, Sen. Godswill Akpabio, alleging substantial padding amounting to N3.7 trillion. Calls for Akpabio's resignation from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) added further pressure to the situation, culminating in the suspension of Senator Abdul Ningi, who initially raised concerns about budget padding.
Bagudu clarified that while the president submits a budget bill, the final budget passed by the Assembly represents an act, granting them the authority to make adjustments. He defended specific alterations made by the Assembly, including increases in budgetary allocations and adjustments to exchange rates, as measures to enhance revenue generation.
Moreover, Bagudu underscored the absence of a definitive judicial ruling on the extent of the National Assembly's appropriation powers, affirming the legislature's autonomy in budgetary decisions. He defended the evolution of constituency projects as a reflection of elected representatives' responsibilities, reiterating the constitutional prerogative of the National Assembly in shaping budgetary allocations.
Meanwhile, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media, dismissed calls for Akpabio's resignation as baseless and politically motivated. Adaramodu affirmed Akpabio's innocence and the Senate's commitment to effective legislation and oversight.
However, Senate Chief Whip, Ali Ndume, inadvertently disclosed that ten principal officers of the Senate received over N200 million each for constituency projects, sparking further debate about resource allocation within the Senate.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar joined the fray, demanding a thorough investigation into the budget padding allegations and condemning Senator Ningi's suspension. Atiku urged transparency and accountability in governance, warning against the ramifications of fiscal malpractice on Nigeria's economic stability and societal well-being.
As the controversy rages on, the nation awaits clarity and accountability amidst the intricate web of budgetary intricacies and political maneuvering within the halls of power.
