The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has called on Senate President Godswill Akpabio not to endorse an alleged proposal by the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, to construct a N15 billion residence for Vice President Kashim Shettima.
In a letter dated December 2, SERAP specifically implored Akpabio to reject the plan, emphasizing the need for Senate authority and oversight in scrutinizing government expenditures.
The group urged Akpabio to assert the Senate’s constitutional oversight roles and reject not only the N15 billion proposed for the vice president’s residence but also the N2.8 billion allocated for publicity in the FCTA, along with other potentially wasteful expenses outlined in the 2023 supplementary budget and the 2024 budget proposed by President Bola Tinubu.
In a statement released on Sunday, SERAP’s deputy director, Kolawole Oluwadare, emphasized the Senate’s constitutional duty to ensure that proposed spending aligns with constitutional provisions and officials’ oath of office.
The organization stressed the importance of the National Assembly, particularly the Senate, in addressing the country’s debt crisis by rejecting unnecessary and extravagant expenses that cater to the personal comfort and lifestyles of public officials.
SERAP warned that approving the N15 billion plan for a ‘befitting residence’ for the vice president would constitute a severe violation of public trust and the constitutional oath of office.
This comes at a time when the Federal Government plans to allocate 30% of the 2024 budget, equivalent to N8.25 trillion, for debt servicing costs.
Source: Channels TV