By Nathaniel Zacchaeus, Abuja
Fifty-eight senators from the northern part of Nigeria yesterday alleged that projections and provisions in the N28.7trn 2024 budget, were lopsided and skewed against their region.
They also kicked against the relocation of some federal agencies in the aviation and banking sectors to Lagos.
They asked their constituents to remain calm and assured them that they were already engaging in dialogue with the executive arm of government led by President Bola Tinubu on the matter.
The Senators threatened to explore legal and other constitutional means in case the dialogue failed.
The Senators made these known in a statement signed by their spokesperson, Senator Suleiman Kawu Summaila, (NNPP Kano South), and made available to journalists in Abuja.
The statement noted that all lawful means to reverse the lop-sidedness would be explored until justice is done.
It was titled, “Allocation and distribution of funds in 2024 National Budget and Relocation of some federal agencies to Lagos.”
Part of the statement read, “As representatives of the people at the national level (Senate), we are committed to addressing the concerns and feelings of our constituents regarding certain decisions and policies put forth by the federal government.
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“In particular, the lop-sidedness in the distribution and allocation of resources in the 2024 budget, and relocation of some federal agencies from Abuja to Lagos are seriously viewed by us as disturbing.
“We understand the importance of fostering a harmonious relationship between the government and its citizens. It is in this spirit that we are announcing our collective efforts to seek an amicable resolution to these pressing issues, within the confines of our constitution and existing laws.
“We are assuring our constituents that we have taken their concerns seriously and are actively engaging with our colleagues to address these matters effectively.
“We firmly believe in the power of open dialogue and collaboration to bring about positive change for our nation.
“We recognise the significance of our role as a bridge between the people and their government, and it is with great responsibility and dedication that we undertake this task.
“We acknowledge that our constituents have shown great patience and trust in our abilities thus far. It is now our turn to ask for their continued support and understanding during this critical juncture.
“We urge our constituents to remain patient as we diligently explore avenues for dialogues, engage in peaceful negotiations, and deploy legal measures where necessary.”
The N28.7trn 2024 budget was passed for third reading by both chambers of the National Assembly on December 30, 2023, and assented to by President Bola Tinubu on January 1, 2024.
