National Assembly Crisis Averted: Tinubu’s Intervention Resolves N3 Trillion Contractor Payment Dispute
President Bola Tinubu’s swift intervention has prevented a major crisis within Nigeria’s National Assembly following tensions over delayed payments for capital projects, according to House of Representatives Deputy Spokesperson Philip Agbese.
The controversy emerged when indigenous contractors protested at the National Assembly complex over unpaid contracts worth more than N3 trillion from 2024. The situation had created significant unrest among lawmakers concerned about stalled constituency projects and budget implementation delays.
Speaking about the recent turmoil, Agbese revealed that the House faced “challenging but instructive” days before Speaker Tajudeen Abbas’s leadership successfully addressed the concerns. The crisis stemmed from two major issues: the non-release of funds for 2024 capital projects and delays in implementing the 2025 budget, despite the fiscal year nearing its end.
The situation reached its peak when members of the All Indigenous Contractors Association of Nigeria (AICAN) blocked the National Assembly’s main entrance, disrupting legislative activities. Many contractors reported severe financial hardships, with some forced to liquidate assets or close their businesses due to non-payment.
In response to the escalating situation, Speaker Abbas and other principal officers engaged directly with the Presidency. President Tinubu responded by directing Finance Minister Wale Edun and Accountant-General Shamseldeen Ogunjimi to begin immediate payments to contractors, a move that has already shown results.
Agbese emphasized that the payment delays were not attributable to the current administration, explaining that the government inherited numerous uncompleted projects and outstanding budget obligations from previous years. He praised Speaker Abbas’s diplomatic approach to the crisis and highlighted the House’s continued support for the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
During a closed-door session, lawmakers urged the Federal Government to ensure full implementation of both the outstanding 2024 and upcoming 2025 capital projects. While the House had initially planned to suspend sittings for seven days in protest, they reversed this decision following positive responses from the government.
The House leadership has now called for expedited action on implementing the capital component of the 2025 approved budget to prevent similar issues in the future. This crisis and its resolution highlight the ongoing challenges in Nigeria’s budget implementation process and the importance of prompt governmental response to financial obligations.
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