The Northern Senators’ Forum (NSF) has voiced concerns over the current state of affairs in Nigeria, attributing worsening conditions to the leadership of President Bola Tinubu since May 29 last year. Senator Abdul Ningi, Chairman of the NSF, raised these issues in an interview with the British Broadcasting Service (BBC) Hausa Service, highlighting various challenges faced by the nation.
Ningi lamented the hardships faced by Nigerians, asserting that governance has deteriorated under President Tinubu’s tenure. He claimed that the national budget for 2024 was padded by approximately N3 trillion by the executive arm of government, prompting the NSF to hire consultants to scrutinize the budget.
In response, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, refuted allegations of budget padding, asserting that there is no evidence of such actions by the executive. Adaramodu emphasized that the budget approval processes were transparent and conducted in public view.
Ningi further criticized President Tinubu’s governance approach, expressing disappointment in the lack of progress on critical projects in the Northern region, such as the Ajaokuta project and the Mambilla power project. He highlighted concerns over the relationship between Nigeria and Niger, particularly regarding the construction of a dam by Niger, which could impact Nigeria’s interests.
Addressing security challenges, Ningi voiced apprehension over escalating insecurity in Northern states, citing incidents of abductions and violence. He called for urgent action to address these issues and prevent further deterioration.
Despite these concerns, Senator Adaramodu assured the public that the Senate is committed to overseeing the execution of the budget and ensuring transparency in governance. He emphasized the Senate’s role in holding the executive accountable and pledged to address any infractions discovered.
The contrasting views between the NSF and the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs underscore the complexities of governance in Nigeria and the need for effective collaboration to address the nation’s challenges.