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National Assembly pressuring Buhari’s govt to release N64.4bn constituency projects money
Nigerian lawmakers are stepping up the pressure on the federal government and President Muhammadu Buhari to promptly release all funds earmarked for their “constituency projects” in 2014, in addition to new allocations for the same projects in 2015, as reported byPREMIUM TIMES .
Ministry of Finance officials fear the money could be misused and are cautious in dealing with the lawmakers, who they believe are cash-strapped as they have yet to reap a major windfall since their elections in March.
Of the N100 billion allotted for the constituency projects last year, N51.88 billion was not released due to funds unavailability, officials say.
The government provided additional N50 billion for the projects in the 2015 budget.
Since budgeted funds are released quarterly, the government has approved N12.5 billion for the projects for the first quarter of 2015, which is between January and March, and has also approved the release of another N12.5 billion from last year’s balance.
But the lawmakers want the entire last year’s shortfall of N51.88 billion and this year’s first quarter allocation of N12.5 billion [totalling N64.4 billion] released immediately, and have ramped up pressure on the government for weeks, claiming contracts for the projects had already been awarded.
Constituency projects should be development programmes recommended by members of the National Assembly for implementation in their constituencies. The projects are financed through special allocation included in government budget annually.
Funds for the projects are kept in a special account from which contractors are paid directly.
Over the years, “constituency projects” became bywords for corruption as dubious lawmakers pocketed allocated funds several fraudulent schemes.
Officials well briefed on the matter say although constituency projects are advertised as required by law, lawmakers have devised a dubious ways of ensuring only companies fronting for them or those that belong to their cronies and prequalified.
They then share the proceeds of the contract with their hand-picked firms after executing a bit of it, or abandoning them altogether, officials at the finance ministry told PREMIUM TIMES.
Afraid that releasing the money under President Muhammadu Buhari could backfire, the ministry opted this time for a thorough process and have refused the release the money, irking the lawmakers.
A Development Fund General Warrant – an authority to make payments – signed by the permanent secretary in the ministry of finance, A. M. Daniel-Nwaobia, dated September 10, 2015, asked the Accountant General to release N12.5 billion for the first quarter of 2015, and another N12.5 billion from the unspent 2014 budget.
The lawmakers have intensified their lobbying after it became clear even the approved money had not been released.
Those familiar with the matter said the federal lawmakers have readied contractors they would recommend to execute projects once the funds are released, and are becoming increasingly impatient with the finance ministry for withholding the funds.
The lead director of Centre for Social Justice, Eze Onyekpere, said the development portends a major crisis for the executive.
“Constituency projects should be harmonised in the 2016 budget in line with the priorities and policy goals of government,” Mr. Onyekpere said.
“Ideally the allocations for constituency projects should not be released to the National Assembly members, but to the supervisory ministries, departments and agencies, MDAs, that would implement the projects.”
Since the budgeting process does not prioritize expenditures in accordance with available resources, he said the executive would be faced with the challenge of deciding what project to release funds to and what to leave out.
He noted that the issue should be a lesson for the administration, which needed to ensure that capital expenditures were reviewed in the 2016 budget, by matching available resources.
The Executive Director, Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre, CISLAC, Auwal Rafsanjani, agreed, saying he was totally opposed to the practice of getting lawmakers play roles in the execution of constituency projects.
Source : premium times
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Sofela Salutes Workers, Calls Them Pillars of Ogun Central’s Progress
Solanke Ayomideji Taiwo
The Senatorial Aspirant for Ogun Central under the All Progressives Congress (APC), Emmanuel Adebola Sofela, has extended warm felicitations to workers across the district in celebration of the 2026 International Workers’ Day.
In a goodwill message released to mark the global event, Sofela praised the resilience, diligence, and unwavering commitment of workers in Abeokuta South, Abeokuta North, Odeda, Obafemi-Owode, Ifo, and Ewekoro Local Government Areas, noting that their contributions remain central to the growth and development of Ogun Central and Nigeria at large.
Describing workers as the “engine room of progress,” Sofela acknowledged the sacrifices made daily by individuals in both the public and private sectors. He emphasized that from civil servants and entrepreneurs to artisans, traders, and professionals, every category of worker plays a vital role in sustaining the economy and strengthening the social fabric of the region.
“On this special occasion of International Workers’ Day, I celebrate the hardworking men and women across Ogun Central whose dedication and commitment continue to drive our collective progress,” the statement read. “Your efforts, whether seen or unseen, form the foundation upon which our communities thrive.”
Sofela highlighted the importance of recognizing and rewarding hard work, stressing that workers deserve not only commendation but also improved welfare, fair opportunities, and an enabling environment to maximize their potential. He called for renewed focus on policies that prioritize job creation, economic empowerment, and sustainable development.
The senatorial hopeful also paid special tribute to workers in essential services, including healthcare personnel, security operatives, teachers, and sanitation workers, who he said consistently demonstrate exceptional courage and responsibility, often under challenging conditions.
“You remain the backbone of our society, standing firm in service even in difficult times. Your dedication inspires hope and strengthens our resolve to build a better future,” he added.
Reaffirming his commitment to the people of Ogun Central, Sofela assured that his aspiration is driven by a desire to advocate for workers’ rights, promote inclusive growth, and support initiatives that will enhance productivity and improve living standards across the district.
As Workers’ Day is celebrated worldwide, his message resonates as both a tribute and a call to action—recognizing the invaluable role of workers while emphasizing the need for sustained efforts to uplift and empower them.
Across Ogun Central, the celebration served as a reminder that behind every achievement lies the dedication of hardworking individuals whose contributions continue to shape the present and secure the future.
Happy International Workers’ Day.
news
Chief Abdul Tunji Mohammed (ATM) Picks APC Senate Nomination Form for Ondo North
Chief Abdul Tunji Mohammed (ATM), the Balogun of Ikare Land, has officially picked the All Progressives Congress (APC) Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms for the Ondo North Senatorial District ahead of the party’s primary election.
Chief ATM obtained the forms at the APC National Secretariat in Abuja on Thursday, signaling his formal entry into the 2027 senatorial race. He was accompanied by party leaders, youth groups, and supporters from across the six local government areas of Ondo North.
Speaking shortly after picking the forms, Chief ATM said the move was in response to “persistent calls from traditional rulers, elders, women, and youths of Ondo North who desire effective and people-centered representation.”
“My aspiration is not about me. It is about restoring the voice of Ondo North, attracting federal presence, and creating jobs for our youth,” ATM stated. “With the support of our leaders and the grace of God, we are ready for the primary and the general election.”
Party faithful who thronged the secretariat described ATM as “the most prepared and acceptable aspirant,” citing his recent endorsements by former Deputy Governor Ali Olanusi, first-class traditional rulers, and the Ondo North Youth Alliance (ONYA).
Chief ATM reaffirmed his commitment to party unity and a clean, issue-based campaign. He called on delegates to prioritize competence and track record during the primaries.
The APC is expected to announce dates for screening and primary elections in the coming weeks.
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Olukare of Ikare, Oba Akadri Momoh, and Council Endorse Balogun ATM for Senate 2027
His Royal Majesty, Oba Akadri Momoh, The Olukare of Ikare Land, alongside his Oba-in-Council of chiefs and elders, has endorsed Chief Abdul Tunji Mohammed (ATM), the Balogun of Ikare, for the Ondo North Senatorial seat in 2027.
The endorsement was announced on Monday at the Olukare’s Palace during Chief ATM’s courtesy visit. Oba Akadri Momoh described ATM as “a true son of Ikare” with the character and competence to represent Ondo North. “He respects tradition and has never turned his back on our people. He has our royal blessing,” the Olukare said.
Chiefs present echoed the monarch, citing ATM’s consistent support for education, healthcare, and empowerment in Akoko land as proof of his readiness.
Chief ATM thanked the Olukare and Council for the “sacred mandate,” pledging to make the welfare of Ikare and Ondo North his priority in the Senate. “In Abuja, the voice of Ikare will be loud, clear, and respected,” he said.
*Signed:*
ATM Campaign Media Team
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