• As Group Demands Transparency and Accountability
The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has called on Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas to reduce the proposed N9.4 billion allocation for the presidency’s travel, refreshment, and catering expenses, alongside the N344.85 billion budget for the National Assembly.
In a letter signed by SERAP Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, the organization urged lawmakers to redirect the savings toward alleviating Nigeria’s economic challenges and reducing the nation’s budget deficit.
SERAP also demanded a detailed breakdown of the National Assembly’s proposed budget to ensure transparency in personnel costs, salaries, and allowances.
Expressing concern over the excessive expenditure during an economic crisis, the group warned that such spending breaches constitutional obligations and undermines public trust.
The presidency’s proposed allocation includes N8.74 billion for domestic and international travel, N546.2 million for catering, and N71.4 million for refreshments.
SERAP further criticized the lack of accountability for missing public funds, as highlighted in the Auditor-General's 2021 report, and called for investigations into implicated ministries, departments, and agencies.
The organization warned of potential legal action if the National Assembly fails to cut wasteful spending, address corruption, and fulfill its oversight responsibilities.
It stressed the importance of reallocating resources to public goods and services, citing the Nigerian Constitution’s mandate to prioritize citizens’ welfare and eliminate corrupt practices.
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