Hon. Philip Agbese, the Deputy Spokesperson for the House of Representatives, stated that the legislature does not need President Bola Tinubu to attend sessions to address budget implementation concerns. He shared these views during a discussion with reporters in Abuja.
This statement follows a tense session last Wednesday where lawmakers debated a motion by Hon. Mascot Ikwechegh, who represents Aba North/Aba South, regarding the alleged mismanagement of the national budget. Speaker Tajudeen Abbas eventually dismissed the motion, noting that the representative had introduced unapproved clauses that deviated from the initial submission.
Agbese clarified that accountability for budget execution lies with ministers, government department heads, and the Accountant-General of the Federation, rather than the President. He emphasized that the National Assembly possesses the constitutional authority to monitor expenditure and hold these specific officials answerable for their actions.
Praising Speaker Abbas for his steady leadership during the dispute, Agbese noted the Speaker’s commitment to parliamentary integrity. He advised the public against politicizing the oversight process, assuring citizens that the House remains dedicated to the responsible use of public funds. Finally, he confirmed that the upcoming National Assembly Open Week, set for July 14, will proceed as planned, asserting that it is a vital initiative for transparency.
