GROUP FAULTS FG SPENDING

A support group for the Buhari campaign makes startling observations about the 2011 Budget

The Restoration Alliance for Buhari (RAB) says the Jonathan government is not transparent and accountable. The group in an advertised press release pointed out that the regime duplicated expenses provided for in 2011. Though some of these are capital projects, the repetition will alarm those who say that corruption was still alive and well in the Jonathan government despite a public avowal to the contrary. In the published advertorial in the Guardian, RAB said: “In 2010 budget, the presidency spent N30million for ‘extension of VP lounge at Aguda’. Surprisingly in budget 2011, there is a new N500 million provision for extension of VP lounge at Aguda House plus furnishing of Aguda House”. The group is not only alarmed at the repeat provision but the increase by 1,566 per cent.

The cases of multiple budgeting for projects by governments have been a steady practice in Nigeria, enabled by dubious officials who wait to share the unspent funds at the end of the fiscal year. Capital provisions though provided for are also not released in time for the projects, a lag that has not been properly addressed. Only last week the Niger Delta ministerGodsdayOrubebeflagged off the rehabilitation of the Benin-Abraka road at N9.5 billion to be completed over three years. He said the contract was approved and provided for last year.

The pro-Buhari group also noted the provision of several more sums for the VP’s quarters and guest house, also provided for in 2010. Areas for which double provision are made are for the furnishing of the VP’s house and guest houses, the ‘upgrade of facilities’ at the Aso Villa, the presidential lodge; purchase of household/office equipment for the presidential wing of the NnamdiAzikiwe airport, purchase of medical equipment for the state house medical centre and on state house vehicles; among others. In all several billions of naira are up for grabs, if the budgeting is duplicitous. The 2011 budget provides N574 million for ‘foodstuff and catering supplies’, another N214 million for ‘refreshment and meals’ and yet another N403 million for ‘purchase of kitchen and household equipment’.

The federal government has not responded to the adverts but the details will anger Nigerians many of whom are alarmed at the waste in government. While reason for the duplicated budgets cannot be ascertained, sources have hinted at massive increase of government budgets at the federal and state levels to provide money for campaigns.