The Nigerian Senate has refuted claims made by Senator Abdul Ningi, representing Bauchi Central, alleging that the 2024 budget was padded with N3 trillion. During an interview with BBC Hausa, Senator Ningi, speaking on behalf of the Northern Senators’ Forum, stated that the National Assembly debated and passed N25 trillion as the 2024 budget, contrasting with the N28.7 trillion being implemented by the Federal Government.
In response, Senate Spokesman, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, issued a statement over the weekend denying the budget padding allegation. Adaramodu emphasized that the budget is a public document, transparently outlining the expected revenue and expenditure of the country. He clarified that there is no evidence of budget padding from the perspective of the Senate and the National Assembly.
Adaramodu further stated that the budget presentation and approval processes were conducted in the public domain, with presidential assent also occurring in a public ceremony. He assured the public that any infractions would have been brought to the attention of the Senate if they had occurred.
Additionally, Adaramodu urged the general public to remain confident in the execution of the 2024 appropriation law, affirming that strict legislative oversight will ensure its proper implementation.
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