Budget Oversight: Tinubu Need Not Appear Before Reps — Deputy Spokesman

The Deputy Spokesperson of the House of Representatives, Philip Agbese, has said President Bola Tinubu does not need to appear before the House to explain concerns over the implementation of the 2025 Appropriation Act, insisting that ministers and other relevant government officials are constitutionally responsible for accounting for budget execution.

Agbese stated this on Sunday while speaking with journalists in Abuja, days after a heated plenary session over a motion seeking to invite the President to explain delays in implementing the 2025 budget, particularly constituency projects.

The controversy followed a motion sponsored by the lawmaker representing Aba North/Aba South Federal Constituency, Alex Ikwechegh, who urged the House to summon the President over the pace of budget implementation.

The proposal divided lawmakers during plenary, prompting Speaker Tajudeen Abbas to rule the prayer inadmissible after observing that it was not included in the original motion submitted before the session.

“It is a complete deviation from the copy you gave me,” the Speaker ruled.

Commenting on the matter, Agbese said the National Assembly’s oversight powers are primarily exercised over ministries, departments and agencies responsible for implementing the budget.

“The House does not need Mr President to appear before it to resolve budget-related issues. The relevant ministers and the Office of the Accountant-General are the right people to answer questions members are asking because they are directly involved in budget implementation,” he said.

According to him, ministers and heads of government agencies are better positioned to explain the execution of constituency projects and other items captured in the national budget.

Agbese also commended Abbas for his handling of the debate, describing his conduct as fair, mature and consistent with parliamentary rules.

He reaffirmed the House’s commitment to transparency and accountability, saying lawmakers would continue to summon ministers, heads of MDAs and other public officials to account for the use of appropriated funds.

The Benue lawmaker also dismissed calls for the cancellation of the National Assembly Open Week beginning July 14, insisting the initiative remains an important platform for legislative transparency and public engagement.