Abdul Ningi, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Population, has clarified statements regarding the 2024 Appropriation Bill, refuting claims of an N3.7tn insertion. In an interview with the British Broadcasting Corporation (Hausa Service), Ningi denied suggesting that President Bola Tinubu was overseeing two budgets, emphasizing that he spoke as a lawmaker, not on behalf of the Northern Senators Forum.
Ningi highlighted discrepancies between the budget approved by the National Assembly (₦25tn) and the one allegedly implemented by the Presidency (₦28tn), citing concerns over unaccounted funds and projects without designated locations. Despite assertions from the Senate spokesperson denying budget padding, Ningi maintained that ₦3tn remained unallocated.
While emphasizing the need for transparency, Ningi clarified that his intention was not to accuse Tinubu of managing two budgets but to address budgetary discrepancies and ensure accountability. He affirmed the Senate’s commitment to resolving the issue through dialogue with relevant stakeholders, stressing the national significance of the matter transcending party or regional affiliations.
