Africa (Commonwealth Union) _ The Presidency has responded to the claims made by Senator Abdul Ningi regarding the 2024 budget, denouncing them as false and clarifying the facts surrounding the budget presentation and approval process. Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information & Strategy, provided a detailed statement to address the misinformation propagated by Senator Ningi.
Onanuga affirmed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu presented a budget of N27.5 Trillion to the National Assembly on November 29, 2023, which comprised specific allocations for recurrent expenditure, debt service, and capital expenditure. This figure was widely reported, and there was no presentation of a N25 Trillion budget.
The statement refuted Senator Ningi’s assertion that the National Assembly debated and passed a N25 Trillion budget, clarifying that the budget signed into law by President Tinubu on January 1, 2024, was N28.7 Trillion. This figure included an increase of N1.2 Trillion proposed by the National Assembly, demonstrating its power of appropriation.
Regarding allegations of bias against the North in the budget, Onanuga emphasized that President Tinubu’s government is fair and equitable to all regions of Nigeria. The budget allocations cover various sectors and infrastructure projects aimed at benefiting every part of the country.
The statement issued strong criticism towards Senator Ningi’s divisive language, while commending fellow senators for rectifying any misinformation. It reiterated President Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to upholding the rule of law and constitutional democracy, underscoring that only the approved N28.7 Trillion budget by the National Assembly is being implemented. This declaration serves as a testament to the government’s steadfast adherence to democratic principles and transparent governance. It emphasizes the importance of accurate information dissemination and responsible rhetoric in fostering unity and progress within the nation.
In conclusion, Onanuga emphasized that the Presidency remains committed to transparency and adherence to constitutional processes, dismissing any claims of operating multiple versions of the 2024 budget.
