A heated debate erupted in the House of Representatives on Wednesday after a proposal to invite President Bola Tinubu over delays in implementing the 2025 budget triggered sharp divisions among lawmakers.
The controversy began when Delta lawmaker Benedict Etanabene raised concerns about a directive issued by the Accountant-General of the Federation ordering federal agencies to suspend payments for constituency and zonal intervention projects until they receive clearance from the Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs.
According to Etanabene, the new requirement could slow down the execution of projects already approved in the national budget and create additional bureaucracy that was not envisaged by lawmakers.
Arguing that Nigerians deserve answers on the pace of budget implementation, he suggested that President Tinubu be invited to explain the rationale behind the directive and address growing concerns about delays.
His proposal immediately sparked intense reactions on the floor, with some members backing the call while others strongly opposed the idea of summoning the President.
The rowdy session highlights increasing tensions between the executive and legislative arms over budget implementation.
Critics say recurring delays in releasing funds for approved projects continue to undermine development efforts and raise questions about the efficiency of government spending despite ambitious budget promises.
