2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has tasked National Assembly to be more transparent and accountable over the increase in proposed 2025 budget.
The former governor of Anambra State who led this out via his X page on Friday, also called for breakdown of expenditures.
Recall that President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday, submitted a proposed budget to the NASS, which was increased from N49.7trn to N54.2trn, citing additional revenues generated by key government agencies.
Reacting to the development on Friday, Obi noted that while the government has outlined the sources of increased revenue, there is no corresponding justification for how the funds will be allocated.
READ MORE: Tinubu Inflates 2025 Budget From N49.7trn To N54.2tn
He also stressed the need for Nigerians to be informed about how public resources are being utilized to ensure that they contribute meaningfully to the nation’s development.
He said: “Furthermore, Nigerians are still waiting for a detailed account of the execution and expenditures of the Renewed Hope budget passed in December 2023 to ensure that it has been properly utilized for the country’s future development and the well-being of its citizens.
“I call on the National Assembly to seize this opportunity to obtain and make public the full details of the 2024 budget of Renewed Hope budget.
“Transparency in this regard is crucial for ensuring accountability, learning from past budgets, and making informed decisions for the nation’s progress.
“As we work towards passing the Budget of Restoration for 2025, let us uphold openness, accountability, and the welfare of the Nigerian people.
“We owe it to ourselves, our children, and the future of our great nation.”