BREAKING: “We Don’t Need Tinubu” — Reps Deputy Spokesperson Speaks on Budget Probe
The Deputy Spokesperson of the House of Representatives, Hon. Philip Agbese, has stated that there is no need for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to personally appear before lawmakers over concerns regarding the implementation of the national budget.
Speaking with journalists in Abuja, Agbese explained that officials directly responsible for executing the budget should be the ones held accountable and invited to provide explanations on budget-related matters, especially issues concerning constituency projects.
The Labour Party lawmaker, who represents Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency in Benue State, emphasized that ministers, heads of Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), and officials from the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation are better positioned to answer questions about budget implementation.
According to Agbese, these officials are directly involved in the disbursement and management of approved funds and can adequately explain delays or challenges affecting project execution.
“The House does not need Mr President to appear before it to resolve budget-related issues. The relevant ministers and the Office of the Accountant-General are the right people to answer questions members are asking because they are directly involved in budget implementation,” he said.
Controversy Over Motion to Invite Tinubu
Agbese's comments come after a heated debate in the House of Representatives following a motion sponsored by Hon. Mascot Ikwechegh, a lawmaker from Abia State.
Ikwechegh had proposed that President Tinubu be invited to address lawmakers regarding concerns over the execution of the national budget. The proposal generated mixed reactions among members, with some supporting the invitation while others opposed it.
During the plenary session, Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, ruled against the aspect of the motion seeking the President’s appearance. He explained that the request was not included in the original version of the motion submitted before deliberations.
“It is a complete deviation from the copy you gave me,” the Speaker reportedly told the lawmaker.
Agbese Defends Speaker Abbas
Reacting to the controversy, Agbese praised Speaker Abbas Tajudeen for his handling of the proceedings, describing his conduct as fair, responsible, and consistent with parliamentary rules.
He said the Speaker demonstrated strong leadership and impartiality despite the tension that surrounded the debate.
“Speaker Abbas showed rare leadership as the presiding officer. He handled the proceedings with calmness, fairness and a clear commitment to protecting the integrity of the House,” Agbese stated.
National Assembly Has Oversight Powers
Agbese further stressed that the National Assembly already possesses constitutional authority to investigate public spending and monitor the implementation of approved budgets.
He urged Nigerians not to view the House's oversight functions through a political lens, insisting that lawmakers remain committed to ensuring transparency and accountability in the use of public funds.
According to him, members of the House are determined to ensure that funds allocated for constituency projects and government programmes are properly utilized for the benefit of Nigerians.
NASS Open Week Will Hold as Planned
The lawmaker also dismissed suggestions that the National Assembly should suspend its planned Open Week programme due to ongoing debates over budget implementation.
Agbese described the initiative as an important platform that promotes transparency, public participation, and a better understanding of legislative activities.
He assured that lawmakers would continue to participate actively in the programme while carrying out their constitutional duties.
“Though things are critical, members will never abdicate their primary responsibility of lawmaking for any other thing or whatever grouse they may have.”
“NASS Open Week has come to stay. It has helped to showcase our activities to major stakeholders across the globe, including cooperation from other parliamentary institutions and partners,” he added.
Conclusion
The debate surrounding budget implementation continues to attract attention within the National Assembly. However, Hon. Philip Agbese has made it clear that the House of Representatives believes accountability should begin with the officials directly responsible for executing the budget, rather than requiring President Tinubu to personally appear before lawmakers. As discussions continue, the House maintains that its focus remains on ensuring transparency, effective budget implementation, and the proper use of public resources.
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