The Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, earlier expressed concerns about the proposed 2024 budget. He specifically raised issues with the large sums allocated for the renovation of Vice President Kashim Shettima’s official residences, emphasizing that the allocated N15 billion could be better utilized.
According to Obi, redirecting these funds towards tripling the fuel allowances of police operational cars could address critical needs.
He pointed out that increasing the daily allowance from N5000 to N15,000 would amount to N13.687 billion, significantly impacting police operations nationwide.
Furthermore, Obi questioned the allocation of over N65 billion for presidential trips and office renovations. Expressing dismay, he highlighted the imbalance in prioritizing such expenditures over essential areas like internal security.
Drawing attention to the dire situation of more than 5,000 under-equipped police stations lacking operational vehicles and sufficient fuel allowances, Obi proposed an alternative strategy.
His suggestion involved redirecting funds from presidential expenses to support local manufacturers in procuring 2,500 4×4 trucks for these stations.
The goal was to bridge crucial security infrastructure gaps and ensure that resources were allocated to areas with pressing needs.
Obi emphasized the need for a comprehensive review of the budget, advocating for a realignment that prioritizes critical national requirements. He underscored the importance of prudent allocation to uplift the impoverished masses and foster a “New Nigeria.”
In his plea for budgetary revision, Obi stressed the significance of targeting urgent needs in health, education, and poverty alleviation.
He believed that a strategic planning and budgeting approach focused on these critical areas would not only enhance national security but also stimulate local industries, create jobs, and improve the overall well-being of the population.
“It is time,” he declared, “to recognize our difficulties, especially the suffering of the poor masses, and prioritize our expenditure.
That is what we clamor for in the New Nigeria, which we insist is very possible.”
