A recent revelation has sparked widespread outrage in Nigeria, as reports emerged that the presiding officers of the National Assembly have been allocated a whopping N10 billion for rent and furniture in the 2024 supplementary budget of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). This allocation has been met with fierce criticism, particularly given the current economic hardships faced by millions of Nigerians.The beneficiaries of this allocation include Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker Abbas Tajudeen, and their deputies, Barau Jibrin and Ben Kalu. This move has raised questions about the government’s priorities and its commitment to addressing the needs of its citizens.
The N10 billion allocation is particularly striking when compared to other budgetary items. For instance, the proposed 2025 budget allocates N11.5 billion for the construction of 20,000 housing units under the Renewed Hope Agenda Housing Scheme. This program aims to provide affordable housing for 20,000 households across the country. Yet, nearly the same amount is being used to furnish and rent accommodation for just four individuals ².Similarly, the nationwide National Housing Programme in the proposed 2025 budget is allocated N5.3 billion—approximately half of the N10 billion set aside for the presiding officers. These comparisons highlight the disparity between the needs of the many and the privileges of a select few. Calls for Transparency and Accountability The controversy surrounding the N10 billion allocation has reignited calls for budgetary reforms and stricter oversight of public expenditure. Many Nigerians are demanding that the National Assembly adopt a more transparent approach to budgeting, with detailed justifications for high-cost allocations like the N10 billion rent and furniture fund.The lack of detailed explanations for such allocations often fuels suspicions of corruption and mismanagement. Critics argue that without greater transparency, it will be difficult to restore public trust in government institutions.
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