The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged the Senate to reject the proposed allocation of N15 billion for the construction of a new residence for the vice president, as outlined in the FCT 2023 supplementary budget.
In a letter addressed to Senate President Godswill Akpabio, SERAP expressed its concerns over the planned spending and urged Mr. Akpabio to use his leadership position to reject the proposal put forward by FCT Minister, Nysom Wike.
SERAP condemned the “wasteful and unnecessary spending” that may be included in the supplementary budget, emphasizing that the country cannot afford such expenses during a period of significant debt crisis.
The organization called on the Senate to safeguard the constitutional provisions and ensure that public officials adhere to their oath of office. It highlighted the need for the Senate to act in the best interest of Nigeria by removing the allocation for the construction of the vice president’s new residence, as well as the N2.8 billion budget for media and publicity in the FCT.
SERAP emphasized that approving the proposed N15 billion spending for the vice president’s residence would be a violation of public trust and constitutional oaths, particularly when the government plans to allocate a substantial portion of the 2024 budget to debt service costs.
Furthermore, SERAP requested that the Senate president instruct the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to investigate the initial allocation of funds for the project, as the reported construction was abandoned and the whereabouts of the N7 billion allocated remain unknown.
SERAP warned that, in the interest of the public, it would consider taking legal action to ensure the National Assembly, including the Senate, fulfills its constitutional oversight responsibilities. The organization stressed the importance of efficient and lawful use of public funds, calling for accountability and faithful performance by public officials.
