FG Defends 2.17 Trillion Naira Supplementary Budget Amidst Peter Obi’s Criticisms 

By Adeke Chukwuka

The Federal Government has responded to statements made by Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 election, where he accused President Bola Tinubu of being indifferent to the challenges faced by Nigerians.

Obi criticized President Tinubu for allegedly neglecting urgent issues in the country while approving the ₦2.17 trillion supplementary budget.

A day after President Tinubu approved the supplementary budget, Peter Obi, the LP presidential candidate, criticized the allocations, claiming they overlooked the nation’s dire crisis. He accused President Tinubu of being insensitive to the suffering of Nigerians, sparking a heated political debate.

In a prompt response to Obi’s criticisms, Mohammed Idris, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, defended the supplementary budget, labeling it a “bold and pragmatic response” to Nigeria’s economic challenges.

In a statement released on November 09, 2023, the minister urged Obi to acquaint himself with the budget specifics, emphasizing allocations for vital sectors including security, agriculture, food security, works and housing, worker wage raises, student loan programs, and social safety nets.

The allocations in the supplementary budget, as highlighted by Minister Mohammed Idris, are intended to bolster Nigeria’s economic foundations and improve living conditions.

According to the minister’s media aide, Rabiu Ibrahim, these provisions demonstrate President Tinubu’s dedication to supporting crucial government functions, addressing urgent security concerns, and accelerating the country’s recovery from the economic impact of the fuel subsidy removal.

Idris emphasized the need for well-informed and unbiased views from the opposition, urging them to avoid distorting facts for political purposes. He clarified that the supplementary budget underwent thorough scrutiny in consultation with stakeholders to meet the needs and expectations of Nigerians.

The minister highlighted President Tinubu’s commitment to government expenditure accountability and transparency, ensuring the efficient use of public funds in all budgetary aspects.