Dalung Alleges N200m Bribe Demand by Lawmakers

Solomon Dalung, the former Minister, alleged that during his budget defense, lawmakers at the National Assembly demanded a bribe of N200 million. He described this incident as indicative of the deep-rooted corruption within Nigeria's public institutions.

Dalung stated that he presented the ministry's budget proposal, but the lawmakers insisted on the bribe, claiming there was no basis for the ministry's budget approval without it. He emphasized that there was no provision in the budget documents for such a demand and expressed confusion over how to obtain the N200 million.

This allegation led to an abrupt end to the session, with lawmakers excusing themselves to discuss matters privately. Dalung further claimed that this incident significantly reduced the effectiveness of subsequent budget defense exercises, as it compromised the oversight responsibilities of the legislators.

He argued that such practices undermine public confidence in state institutions and encourage the misappropriation of public resources.