House of Reps Calls for Tinubu's Summons Over Budget Delays

On June 29, 2023, the House of Representatives in Nigeria held a tumultuous session following a motion proposed by Hon. Benedict Etanaben to summon President Bola Tinubu. The motion was prompted by a circular issued by Shamseldeen Ogunjimi, the Accountant General of the Federation, which directed federal ministries and agencies to halt payments for constituency projects unless vetted by the Minister of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs.

Lawmakers expressed frustration over the slow implementation of the 2025 budget and the backlog of payments owed to local contractors, amounting to N1.5 trillion. The session saw sharp divisions, with some lawmakers supporting the motion while others, including Hon. Yusuf Gagdi, opposed it, arguing that the parliament should not invite the president.

Speaker Hon. Tajudeen Abba intervened multiple times to restore order as the session devolved into chaos. Ultimately, the motion was put to a vote but was rejected, leading to further discussions about the budget's implementation.