A fresh controversy erupted on Monday between the National Assembly and civic organisation BudgIT over the alleged insertion of 11,122 projects worth N6.93 trillion into the 2025 Appropriation Bill. BudgIT accused lawmakers of padding the budget with projects that do not align with the Medium-Term National Development Plan (2021–2025) or national priorities, raising concerns over abuse and politicisation of the budgeting process.
In swift responses, both chambers of the National Assembly—the Senate and House of Representatives—denied any wrongdoing, insisting the legislature has constitutional powers to amend the budget. Lawmakers dismissed BudgIT’s claims as misleading, defending their role in scrutinising and improving executive proposals to reflect constituency needs and national interest.
BudgIT, however, maintained its stance, alleging that budget padding had evolved from isolated irregularities into a systemic issue driven by top-ranking legislators. The organisation warned that such practices undermine transparency and development, calling for urgent reforms to restore credibility to the national budget process and ensure funds are directed to impactful and planned programmes.
