Expressing deep concerns about the 2024 budget, Peter Obi, the former 2023 Labour Party Presidential candidate, emphasized the critical impact of the budget on citizens’ lives, particularly the poor.
In a statement released via X on Tuesday, Obi maintained his stance on the budget’s numerous negative aspects, stressing their adverse effects on the nation’s development and the well-being of its people.
He highlighted the necessity for a review and appropriate reallocation of resources, emphasizing the importance of directing limited resources towards high-priority areas to enhance the nation’s welfare.
Obi raised objections to various allocations within the budget, citing the allocation of N15 billion solely for the National Assembly hospital as unacceptable. He noted that this amount significantly exceeded the budgetary allocations of The National Hospital and the combined capital votes of six major teaching hospitals nationwide.
Referencing institutions such as the University College Hospital, Ibadan, and Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, Zaria, among others, Obi underscored the disparity in care for different segments of society.
Furthermore, Obi criticized the N15.3 billion allocation for the National Assembly library project and procurement of books, including the e-Library. He pointed out the prolonged construction of the National Library and highlighted the significant disparity in budget allocations compared to the National Assembly Library.
Expressing concern over the allocation of N10 billion for the Senate and House of Representatives’ car parks and the National Assembly Recreation Centre, Obi stressed the need for greater investment in the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation.
Emphasizing the importance of prioritizing science, technology, and innovation for the nation’s future, Obi urged a reconsideration of budgetary priorities, a thorough review of the budget, and the removal of unnecessary expenditures.