A corruption scandal is unfolding at the National Assembly, where prominent lawmakers such as Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Speaker Tajudeen Abbas are allegedly embezzling the N500 billion palliative funds meant to support poor Nigerians affected by the removal of fuel subsidies.
According to sources, Mr. Akpabio has ordered luxury vehicles worth N1 billion for his personal use, while Mr. Abbas plans to spend N9.5 billion on renovating guest houses and villages in Kaduna.
Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin has also allocated billions of naira for projects that are deemed inconsequential for a state with a high poverty rate.
Lower-ranking legislators have expressed concerns about the misuse of funds and fear that the intended purpose of the palliative may not be fulfilled if it is already being looted by top officials.
If the public does not feel the impact of the palliative, it could lead to frustration and dissatisfaction with President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Despite inquiries, Messrs Akpabio, Abbas, and Jibrin have not responded to the allegations.
Article updated 2 months ago. Content is written and modified by multiple authors.
