As the House of Representatives prepares to reconvene today, there are strong signals that members are gearing up to voice their frustrations regarding the execution of the budget and the unsettled payments for constituency projects initiated since 2024.
Concerns have been raised by lawmakers about the potential political fallout in their constituencies due to the inadequate attention given to projects launched in 2024.
Insider reports reveal that several parliamentarians have expressed dissatisfaction over the failure to compensate local contractors who carried out these projects, with payments outstanding since 2024.
They highlighted mounting pressure from their constituents and fear that this neglect could jeopardize their chances of re-election in 2027.
In response, the lawmakers have resolved to intensify demands on Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, holding him accountable for the ineffective budget implementation that has left them disadvantaged.
Another major grievance centers on the uneven distribution of funds for constituency projects, with some members receiving as much as N19 billion, while others were allocated as little as N1 billion.
In protest against the poor handling of the 2024 and 2025 budgets, some lawmakers have threatened to oppose the presentation of the 2026 budget proposal.
However, the House leadership clarified that lawmakers do not engage directly with contractors responsible for constituency projects.
Deputy House Spokesman Hon Philip Agbese explained that these projects fall under the jurisdiction of designated government agencies charged with their execution.
He assured that the House would maintain rigorous oversight to guarantee the budget’s full and effective implementation.
Agbese also emphasized ongoing efforts to foster constructive dialogue between the Ministry of Finance and local stakeholders involved in project delivery.
It is worth noting that members of the National Assembly, comprising both the Senate and the House of Representatives, had been on their annual legislative break since July and are scheduled to resume today, 23 September 2025.
Lawmakers Unite in Firm Stance
Investigations reveal that a faction of disgruntled lawmakers has coalesced, preparing for a confrontation with the House leadership upon resumption.
During a recent meeting, one member urged colleagues to prioritize thorough budget oversight to ensure equitable benefits across all constituencies.
He remarked, “We have only one significant budget left. The disparity in constituency allocations is glaring-where one member receives N1 billion and another N19 billion. This gap is unacceptable and must be addressed.”
Another legislator questioned the fairness of their current treatment, asking, “Why shouldn’t we advocate for a more equitable arrangement?”
One member called for unity beyond political, ethnic, or religious divides, stressing, “With elections looming next year, our immediate priority should be securing payment for all 2024 projects completed by local contractors and ensuring the 2025 budget is fully funded. This will alleviate constituent pressure.”
He added, “Our goal is not to oppose anyone but to demand what is necessary for our political survival. The time to act is now.”
Criticism was also directed at Speaker Abbas’s leadership, with one lawmaker accusing the leadership of neglecting members’ interests.
“Many in leadership positions seem to prioritize their own agendas over ours. If this continues, most of us risk being sidelined in 2027. We must act decisively to correct this imbalance,” he warned.
Another member described their demands as reasonable and urgent.
“We deserve fair treatment. Time is running out. We must either secure resources to run for re-election or prepare to retire with dignity. Otherwise, we risk returning as former members seeking favors from those who denied us support.”
He outlined their key demands: “Full payment of the 2024 and 2025 budgets is non-negotiable. If that fails, the 2026 budget should be put on hold.”
He further criticized the disproportionate allocations, stating, “It’s disheartening that a few receive N19 billion while many get far less. For 2026, I insist on a minimum of N2 billion per member. If that causes upheaval, so be it. Redistribution is fair and necessary.”
He urged colleagues to focus solely on their welfare and budget fairness, avoiding divisive political debates.
Some lawmakers advocated for a more discreet approach, suggesting that keeping their plans confidential until the House reconvenes would maximize impact.
Others argued that if the government cannot fund the 2024 and 2025 budgets despite repeated calls, discussions about supplementary or 2026 budgets should be suspended.
In defense of the Speaker, one member acknowledged his efforts but noted he is nearing his limits.
Calls were also made for the House’s appropriation and finance committees to investigate revenue agencies like NNPC, FIRS, and Customs to curb financial leakages.
One legislator condemned selfish leadership and highlighted recent controversies involving minority leaders downplaying the N19 billion allocation issue, which he described as a deliberate misrepresentation undermining trust.
He lamented the leadership vacuum and accused minority leaders of prioritizing personal interests over collective responsibility, citing the recruitment of 800 National Assembly staff as an example of missed opportunities for transparency.
“Our constituents are watching, and history will judge who stood for justice and service,” he concluded.
Another lawmaker criticized the leadership’s lack of courage in addressing members’ welfare, warning of potential unrest if demands are ignored.
“If not for the Speaker’s humility and my own maturity, we would already be witnessing a repeat of past conflicts. This is a fight to the finish. The leadership must secure payments for 2024 and 2025 projects, and N2 billion per member for 2026 is non-negotiable. Otherwise, crisis is inevitable.”
He vowed that upon resumption, they would confront the leadership directly, refusing to remain silent amid ongoing sycophancy.
House Leadership Clarifies Role in Constituency Projects
Deputy House Spokesman Hon Philip Agbese reiterated that lawmakers do not have direct contractual relationships with contractors handling constituency projects, as these responsibilities lie with designated government agencies.
“Our main concern is the nation’s economic health and ensuring the Appropriation Bill we passed is implemented effectively,” he stated.
Agbese emphasized the House’s commitment to fostering peaceful and productive dialogue between the Ministry of Finance and local stakeholders to resolve outstanding issues and ensure project completion for community benefit.
He expressed optimism that under President Tinubu’s administration, the 2025 budget would be fully executed within the fiscal year.
