The House of Representatives has issued a seven-day ultimatum to key government officials, including the Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, and the Minister of Budget and National Planning, Senator Atiku Bagudu, to settle outstanding debts owed to local contractors and to implement the 2025 budget fully. This resolution came after a motion by Minority Leader Kingsley Chinda, who highlighted a protest by local contractors at the National Assembly, demanding payment for work completed as far back as 2024.
Chinda noted that previous commitments made by the Accountant-General regarding the payment of these debts had not been honored, despite a meeting involving over 80 contractors and top government officials. He emphasized the severe hardship faced by both the contractors and the general populace due to these unpaid debts, contributing to increased poverty and tension in the country.
The House’s resolution includes a mandate for the leadership to ensure compliance and report back within a week, with the possibility of tougher legislative actions if the executive fails to meet the deadline. Additionally, a motion to adjourn plenary in solidarity with the protesting contractors was approved, acknowledging the disruption caused by their protest. The situation remains tense, with contractors threatening to escalate their protests if their demands are not met.
