The administration of President Bola Tinubu has come under scrutiny for its substantial expenditure on the renovation of various State House quarters. Between December 2023 and May 2024, a total of N10.55 billion was spent on these projects, according to data from GovSpend.
On May 31, 2024, N1.354 billion was allocated for the acquisition, renovation, and rehabilitation of two forfeited quarters as part of the State House complex. This expenditure is just one example of the significant outlays made during this period.
Breakdown of Expenditures
- Two Forfeited EFCC Quarters at Mabushi: N773 million was spent on their renovation and rehabilitation.
- Official Quarters of Mr. President: N1.877 billion was allocated for renovation on May 31, 2024.
- Dodan Barracks Official Residence: N752 million was spent on May 31, 2024.
- Vice President’s Residence: N2.8 billion was used for renovations.
- State House Complex at Guzape: N1.5 billion was spent on the renovation of forfeited EFCC quarters.
- Two Nos EFCC Forfeited Properties in Mabushi: N1.5 billion each was spent on their renovation and rehabilitation, with payments made on December 30, 2023.
Previous Reports and Public Outcry
Earlier reports from SaharaReporters revealed that the Tinubu-led Presidency spent N2.1 billion on the acquisition, renovation, and rehabilitation of four Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) forfeited quarters at Guzape and Mabushi areas of Abuja. These expenditures have sparked significant public debate and criticism.
Misplaced Priorities?
Experts have criticized these lavish expenditures, calling them a misplaced priority in a country where over 130 million citizens live in multidimensional poverty. The decision to invest such large sums in renovating and rehabilitating forfeited properties, originally seized by an anti-corruption agency, has been particularly contentious.
Public Reaction
The substantial spending on these renovations has raised questions about the priorities of the Tinubu administration. Many Nigerians, already struggling with economic hardship, view these expenditures as indicative of a government disconnected from the plight of its citizens.
As more details emerge, the Tinubu administration faces increasing pressure to justify these expenditures and demonstrate a commitment to addressing the pressing needs of the Nigerian populace.
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