The House of Representatives was thrown into confusion on Wednesday as lawmakers disagreed over a proposal to invite President Bola Tinubu to explain delays in the implementation of the 2025 budget.
During plenary, Benedict Etanabene, who represents Okpe, Sapele and Uvwie Federal Constituency in Delta State, raised a point of privilege concerning a circular issued on June 29 by the Accountant General of the Federation, Shamseldeen Ogunjimi.
In the circular, the Accountant General directed all federal ministries, departments and agencies to stop processing payments for constituency and zonal intervention projects until they are properly vetted by the Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs.
Etanabene argued that the directive could slow down the execution of projects approved in the 2025 budget.
He therefore urged the House to summon President Tinubu to explain the delay in implementing the budget and address concerns surrounding the new payment directive.
His proposal sparked disagreement among lawmakers, leading to a rowdy session on the floor of the House.
Details of the debate and the House’s decision were still being awaited at the time of filing this report.
