Budget Padding Has Been Since 1999, Akpabio Did Not Break Any Law – Bagudu

Budget Padding Has Been Since 1999, Akpabio Did Not Break Any Law – Bagudu

The Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Atiku Bagudu, has defended the actions of Senate President Godswill Akpabio and the National Assembly regarding insertions in the 2024 budget, stating that they did not violate any laws. Senator Abdul Ningi of Bauchi Central, who initially raised concerns about budget padding, was subsequently suspended for three months by the Senate, sparking controversy…..READ ALSO BREAKING: Akpabio Unveils Oyetola, Bagudu, Matawalle, Lalong, 15 More Ministerial Nominees (FULL LIST)

During a press briefing in Abuja on Thursday, Bagudu explained that budget padding has been a common practice since 1999. He noted that the National Assembly often adds new line items to allocate funds for specific projects in their constituencies, leading to an increase in the approved budget compared to what the president initially proposed.

Bagudu emphasized that the modifications made by the National Assembly did not contravene any laws because the final budget, passed with amendments, becomes an act of the assembly.

He stated: “The president submitted a budget of N27.5 trillion, and the National Assembly, in its wisdom, increased it to N28.7 trillion. When we presented the budget, it was at an exchange rate of N750 to a dollar, but the assembly increased it to N800 to a dollar, which generated more revenue. The assembly also mandated Government Owned Enterprises to contribute more revenue. Additionally, there was an increase in the budget allocation for the judiciary, legislature, and executive.

“The president, in signing the 2024 appropriation, acknowledged that in democracy, institutions have their power, and the National Assembly has the final say.

“The practice of constituency projects and projects sponsored by National Assembly members, which dates back to 1999, reflects the challenges faced by elected officials. There has been a longstanding debate, and a former president even took the issue to the Supreme Court to define the appropriation powers of the executive and the National Assembly. However, there has been no resolution to this matter. Therefore, the National Assembly’s authority over the budget stands. Even if the president refuses to assent to an appropriation bill, after 30 days, it becomes law.

“Do they have the right to increase a budget line? I would say yes.”