Cut proposed ₦9.4b refreshments budget, SERAP tells Akpabio

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has called on Nigeria’s Senate President, Mr. Godswill Akpabio, and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mr. Tajudeen Abbas, to slash the proposed ₦9.4 billion refreshments budget for the presidency.

SERAP argued that these excessive allocations should be reduced to address the country’s growing deficit and reliance on borrowing.

In a statement on its ‘X’ page, the group said, “We urge the leaders of the National Assembly to demonstrate commitment to addressing Nigeria’s debt crisis by reducing wasteful and unnecessary expenditure in the proposed 2024 budget. This would send a strong message about prioritising the needs of Nigerians over lavish spending.”

The group’s appeal seeks to ensure that public funds are used more judiciously, aiming to promote fiscal responsibility and help alleviate Nigeria’s financial strain.

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Recently, SERAP urged the Senate President to consider the human rights implications of the tax reform bills currently being discussed at the National Assembly.

According to SERAP, any discussion and consideration of the tax reform bills must ensure full compliance with the provisions of the Nigerian Constitution 1999 (as amended) and the country’s international human rights obligations and commitments.

SERAP noted that if properly aligned with human rights standards, the tax reform bills would enhance the ability of the Federal, State, and Local Governments to fulfil their human rights obligations and adequately fund public services essential for human rights.

The organisation lamented that some provisions of the tax bills lacked mechanisms for effective oversight and accountability, as required by the rule of law in a democratic society, thereby increasing the risks of abuse of power or arbitrariness.