According to an exclusive report by Premium Times, Northern Senators Forum (NSF) has raised concerns over the alleged padding of the 2024 budget by Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, with approximately N4 trillion worth of projects. During a meeting at Mr. Akpabio’s Guest House in Abuja, representatives of the NSF accused him of discreetly inserting projects without proper location details and claimed the budget favored certain regions over others.
The tension-soaked meeting involved key Senate leaders, including Akpabio’s deputy, Barau Jibrin, and Chief Whip, Ali Ndume. Although Akpabio suggested the projects might have been inserted during his hospitalization, the NSF remained adamant, demanding explanations and urging him to address their grievances.
In response, Akpabio assured the senators that he would look into the matter, but the NSF remained resolute, pressing for corrective actions. Interestingly, shortly after the meeting, southern senators allegedly mobilized to counter the NSF’s move, indicating a potential rift within the Senate.
Chairman of the NSF, Abdul Ningi, highlighted discrepancies in the budget, citing unauthorized changes and additions that could negatively impact the nation. The NSF vowed to challenge Akpabio’s actions and seek clarification from President Tinubu, who presented the budget to the National Assembly.
Efforts to reach Akpabio’s spokesperson and the Senate spokesperson for comments were unsuccessful at the time of reporting. This incident adds to the recurring issue of budget padding in Nigerian politics, underscoring the need for accountability and transparency in budgetary processes.
Credit: Premium Times
A leopard will never change its spots. Akpabio’s career in government (state and federal levels) has been with graft. I see no reason for him to change. I’m not sure how he wangled his way into a senate position and ultimately became its leader. This is a man with only one talent. Stealing. Nigeria does not deserve such a man.