Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to provide Nigerians with a detailed explanation over what he described as an alleged ₦12.8 trillion discrepancy in the 2026 national budget, insisting that the issue raises serious concerns about transparency, accountability and fiscal discipline in the management of public funds.
In a strongly worded statement, the former presidential candidate questioned the source and purpose of the funds, arguing that every naira appropriated in the national budget must be properly accounted for. He maintained that Nigerians deserve clear answers regarding the alleged gap, especially at a time when millions of citizens are grappling with economic hardship, high inflation and the rising cost of living.
Atiku also urged the National Assembly to immediately launch a comprehensive investigation into the matter, saying lawmakers have a constitutional responsibility to scrutinise government spending and ensure that public finances are managed in accordance with the law. According to him, any expenditure outside the approved budget framework must be subjected to thorough legislative oversight to preserve public trust in Nigeria’s democratic institutions...READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE .
The former vice president argued that transparency in public finance is essential for strengthening investor confidence and ensuring effective governance. He warned that unresolved questions surrounding the budget could undermine efforts to restore confidence in the country’s economic management if they are not addressed promptly and openly.
His latest remarks come amid heightened political debate over the implementation of the 2026 Appropriation Act and follow recent controversies surrounding alleged irregularities in government budgeting. The comments have sparked fresh discussions among political observers, civil society groups and economic analysts, many of whom have called for greater openness in the nation’s fiscal operations.
As reactions continue to trail the allegations, attention is now focused on the Federal Government and the National Assembly to determine whether further clarifications or investigations will follow. The development is expected to remain a major issue in Nigeria’s political and economic discourse, with many citizens awaiting official responses to the concerns raised over the management of the 2026 budget.
