The Senate Committee on Special Duties on Wednesday rejected a proposed N127 million allocation for the purchase of an SUV for Aso Villa, describing the amount as “totally unacceptable.”
Lawmakers announced the decision during the budget defence of the Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, led by Minister Zephaniah Jisalo.
‘It Cannot Buy a Bulletproof Tokunbo’
Chairman of the committee, Kaka Shehu, dismissed the allocation as unrealistic.
“I will join my colleague in rejecting N127 million for SUV car in the Villa,” he said.
“It cannot buy even a bulletproof Tokunbo. Let us not project the image of Nigeria negatively in the committee of nations. That is totally unacceptable.”
Shehu noted that Nigeria must protect its image, particularly during engagements involving foreign dignitaries.
“We don’t want a situation where a visiting president will use Tokunbo in the airport. No, that is unacceptable,” he said.
Budget Office Must Review Cuts
Shehu blamed the shortfall on reductions made by the Budget Office.
He directed the minister to submit the ministry’s original proposal before officials slashed the figure.
“Give us your actual proposal that you sent before it was slashed, and then we’ll meet with the Appropriations Committee to do justice to your request,” he said.
He assured the ministry that the committee would engage the Appropriations Committee and push for a proper review of the allocation.
Praise for Prompt Appearance
Earlier, Shehu commended Jisalo and his team for honouring the committee’s invitation promptly.
He said the State House had set an example by appearing when due and urged other ministries and agencies to follow suit.
Shehu also asked the minister to convey the committee’s appreciation to President Bola Tinubu, adding that the Renewed Hope agenda reflects leadership by example.
At the close of the session, Shehu thanked the minister and his team and formally discharged them.
