Seun Onigbinde, the Co-Founder of civic group BudgIT, recently addressed the concerns raised by Senator Abdul Ningi regarding the lack of detailed breakdown for approximately N3.7 trillion of the N28.78 trillion 2024 Appropriation Act. Onigbinde clarified this issue during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today program.
While acknowledging Senator Ningi’s point about the need for a detailed budget breakdown, Onigbinde disputed the claim that Nigeria was running two parallel budgets. He emphasized the importance of transparency in budget allocations and highlighted the discrepancies in the budget figures.
Senator Ningi, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party, recently resigned as Chairman of the Northern Senators’ Forum following his suspension over budget padding allegations. Onigbinde and his Budgit team conducted a thorough fact-check during the Senate’s rowdy session and found inconsistencies in Senator Ningi’s claims.
According to Onigbinde, the 2024 Appropriation Act, signed into law by President Bola Tinubu, included a total of N28.78 trillion, with around N9 trillion allocated for capital projects. He explained that while certain budget items like statutory transfers may lack detailed breakdowns, it does not indicate the existence of two separate budgets.
Onigbinde urged both the executive and the National Assembly to prioritize transparency in budgetary allocations to Ministries, Departments, Agencies (MDAs), and government-owned enterprises. He highlighted the importance of providing detailed information on how allocated funds are being utilized, particularly in entities like TETFUND and INEC.
In conclusion, Onigbinde emphasized the need for greater transparency and accountability in budget processes to ensure that public funds are utilized effectively and efficiently. By addressing these issues, Nigeria can enhance its governance and financial management practices for the benefit of its citizens.
