The Coalition on Good Governance and Accountability (CGGA) is urging President Bola Tinubu to dismiss the Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, and the Accountant General of the Federation, Oluwatoyin Madein, due to poor management of the 2024 budget’s capital expenditures.
In a statement released by Dr. Anthony Apochi, chairman of CGGA, the group expressed serious concerns about the impact of delayed funding. Apochi highlighted that the lack of released funds has severely affected Nigerians, leading to reduced investment in essential infrastructure, economic downturns, and increased unemployment.
“The 2024 budget, signed by President Tinubu, allocated N9 trillion for capital expenditures aimed at improving infrastructure, social programs, and economic development,” Apochi said. “This funding is crucial for boosting economic growth, creating jobs, and enhancing living standards.”
The budget includes money for important areas such as transportation, education, healthcare, and agriculture. However, only N1.84 billion of the N9 trillion set aside for these projects has been spent so far. This is far below what is needed, and the Finance Minister and Accountant General have not ensured that funds are released on time for these vital projects.
The delay in funding has had serious consequences. There has been insufficient investment in critical infrastructure, which has hurt economic activity and increased unemployment. Lack of funding for social programs has worsened poverty and hunger, leading to widespread starvation.
The delay has also negatively affected the healthcare sector, resulting in shortages of medical supplies, equipment, and personnel. This has degraded healthcare services and put many lives at risk.
Moreover, inadequate funding for agriculture has led to reduced food production, causing food shortages and higher prices. This situation has disproportionately affected vulnerable groups, including the poor, women, and children.
The CGGA is questioning the Minister of Finance and the Accountant General about their failure to release funds promptly and is concerned about their lack of transparency and accountability. They are disappointed that there have been no regular updates on the budget’s status.
The group has issued a vote of no confidence in Edun and Madein, calling for their resignation. “They have failed in their duties and lost the trust of the Nigerian people,” Apochi stated. “Their resignation is the only honorable course of action. We urge President Tinubu to act quickly to address this crisis and ensure that the capital components of the budget are fully funded and implemented.”
