Crisis Averted: Tinubu’s Intervention Resolves National Assembly Funding Dispute
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s timely intervention has resolved a brewing crisis in the National Assembly over delayed payments for capital projects, according to House of Representatives Deputy Spokesperson Philip Agbese.
The tension reached its peak last week when indigenous contractors stormed the National Assembly complex in Abuja, protesting unpaid dues for projects completed since 2024. Members of the All Indigenous Contractors Association of Nigeria (AICAN) blocked the main entrance, highlighting how the payment delays had forced many to liquidate assets or close their businesses.
During a closed-door session last Wednesday, lawmakers expressed deep concerns about inadequate budget funding and demanded full implementation of the 2024 Appropriation Act’s capital component. The situation became so serious that the House initially planned to suspend sessions for seven days, though this decision was later reversed following positive signals from the Executive branch.
Speaking to reporters on Monday, Agbese described the period as “challenging but instructive.” He explained that Speaker Tajudeen Abbas and other principal officers immediately engaged with the Presidency to address the situation. Following this, President Tinubu directed Finance Minister Wale Edun and Accountant-General Shamseldeen Ogunjimi to begin immediate contractor payments.
“The intervention of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was decisive,” Agbese stated, confirming that payments have already commenced. He emphasized that the payment delays were not attributable to the current administration but resulted from inherited obligations from previous fiscal years.
The House leadership, under Speaker Abbas, has successfully managed to restore calm among lawmakers. Agbese praised the Speaker’s diplomatic approach, noting, “Our members have absolute confidence in Speaker Tajudeen Abbas. He has shown that he is a truthful and patriotic leader who believes in dialogue, not division.”
Looking ahead, Agbese urged the Executive to accelerate the implementation of the 2025 capital budget to maintain development momentum and public trust. The House remains committed to supporting the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda while ensuring proper budget implementation.
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