Former Kogi West Senator Dino Melaye has urged the Senate to combat rampant corruption affecting the economy, particularly highlighting concerns over the significant increase in the National Assembly's budget allocation. Melaye criticized what he sees as non-essential budget items used as avenues to siphon public funds, calling for kidnappers to be treated as terrorists to combat the menace effectively.
Melaye referenced past warnings about corruption and budget padding, emphasizing the need for transparency in Nigeria's budgetary process. He cited Nigeria's low ranking in budget transparency globally and expressed concern over the allocation of funds, suggesting that budget fraud could be the foundation of corruption in the country.
The former senator criticized the recent increase in the National Assembly's budget allocation, pointing out that it was the highest ever and surpassed allocations between 2011 and 2014 combined. He highlighted specific budget items, such as the Senate and House of Representatives' car parks, which he believed were overpriced. Melaye accused both the Executive and the National Assembly of complicity in budget manipulation and enriching a few individuals at the expense of ordinary Nigerians.
Melaye concluded by criticizing the current administration for prioritizing lawmakers' welfare over the hardships faced by ordinary citizens. He accused the National Assembly of failing in its oversight role and colluding with the Executive to perpetuate corruption, describing the situation as a case of "chop-make I-chop," indicating a pervasive culture of corruption and impunity.
