Obi condemns concurrent execution of 4 national budgets

Says it’s ecipe for frivolity

By Ihechukwu Sunday
The Labour Party candidate in the 2023 presidential elections, Peter Obi, has decried the implementation of four national budgets concurrently, describing it as a recipe for chaos and frivolity.
Writing on his X handle on Saturday, the former Anambra Governor also described the move as a flagrant disregard for fiscal responsibility, transparency and accountability.
He said: “All available evidence has confirmed that the Federal Government is implementing four national budgets concurrently. This is a blatant disregard for fiscal responsibility, transparency, and accountability.
“It is also a recipe for chaos, confusion, and catastrophe.
“This intentional action will lead to frivolous items in the approved budgets competing with essential projects for limited resources, and further exacerbating the suffering of the Nigerian people.
“It indicates that the Leaders are out of touch with reality and lack the competence to manage our nation’s finances effectively.
“Unfortunately, this deliberate act of fiscal recklessness is being undertaken by elected representatives of the people, thereby betraying one of the cardinal pillars of democracy. Leaders are elected to responsibly manage the public resources in an organised way.
“I respectfully appeal, and in fact, demand that this situation be reversed immediately in preference for a more responsible and transparent approach to budgeting.
“We must prioritise the needs of the Nigerian people, not the selfish interests of a few.
“This is a call to action for all leaders to desist from actions that will further drive the country into economic chaos.
“Neither the National Assembly nor the executive has any excuse to promote or condone such unconscionable behaviour.
“We seek and insist on a nation governed by leaders, who are frugal and responsible in their handling of public resources.
“This is the only way we can build a great nation.”