The former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, is demanding a thorough explanation from both the Presidency and the National Assembly regarding alleged budget padding discrepancies amounting to N3 trillion.
Expressing his concern, Obi emphasized that this sum represents over 10% of the national budget, a substantial amount that requires clear accountability.
The call for clarification comes in response to Senator Abdul Ningi's inquiry into the whereabouts of N3 trillion in the 2024 N28.7 trillion budget. While a statement by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information & Strategy, refuted Ningi's claim, asserting that the National Assembly increased the budget by N1.2 trillion in the spirit of democracy, Obi criticized the lack of transparency in managing public funds.
Taking to X to voice his concerns, Obi stated that the alleged N3 trillion discrepancy is deeply disconcerting and a matter of grave concern. He pointed out that this amount surpasses the combined official budgets for education (N1.54 trillion) and health (N1.38 trillion).
Stressing the importance of full accountability for scarce resources entrusted to public trust, Obi demanded a public explanation from both the National Assembly and the Presidency regarding the purpose and process of adding the alleged N3 trillion.
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