Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Ibrahim Ramalan
Published on 2024-03-11 22:05:59
Senator Abdul Ningi of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) representing Bauchi Central recently found himself in the midst of controversy after being misquoted by the BBC Hausa Service. The report claimed that he accused President Bola Tinubu of operating two different budgets for the year 2024. However, Senator Ningi vehemently denies making such statements and clarified that he was speaking in his personal capacity and not on behalf of the Northern Senators’ Forum, as reported.
In response to the allegations, the Presidency issued a statement through the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, refuting the claims made by Senator Ningi. Onanuga explained that President Tinubu presented a budget of N27.5 trillion to the National Assembly on November 29, 2023, which was eventually passed into law as a N28.7 trillion budget after adjustments by the National Assembly.
Senator Ningi’s remarks were dismissed as baseless and unfortunate by the Presidency, emphasizing that there is only one budget being implemented for the year 2024 as approved by the National Assembly and signed by President Tinubu. It was clarified that the budget presented and signed into law was N28.7 trillion, not the N25 trillion mentioned by Senator Ningi.
Furthermore, Senator Jimoh Ibrahim of the All Progressives Congress (APC) from Ondo State also denounced Senator Ningi’s comments, stating that the Senate only approved one appropriation for 2024 and that the Presidency cannot operate two budgets. Senator Ibrahim, a member of the Senate Committee on Appropriation, called out the misinformation spread by Senator Ningi and deemed it unacceptable.
President Tinubu’s administration was defended by Mr. Onanuga, highlighting the fairness and equity in the distribution of funds and projects across all regions of Nigeria. He assured the public that President Tinubu upholds the Constitution of Nigeria and operates within the bounds of the law, adhering to the budget approved by the National Assembly.
It is evident from the conflicting statements that there was a misunderstanding or misrepresentation of facts regarding the budget for the year 2024. The controversy surrounding Senator Ningi’s alleged remarks and the subsequent responses from the Presidency and fellow senators demonstrate the importance of accurate communication and transparency in governance.
As the country moves forward, it is essential for all stakeholders to collaborate effectively and ensure that public statements are clear, truthful, and in line with official records and procedures. Clarity and integrity in communication are vital for maintaining public trust and fostering a conducive environment for effective governance and development in Nigeria.
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