Peter Obi, the presidential candidate for the Labour Party in the 2023 elections, has called for a comprehensive review of the 2024 budget, expressing deep concerns over the nation’s deteriorating security situation, widespread poverty, food insecurity, and crumbling infrastructure.
In a statement issued through X on Monday, Obi emphasized the urgency of addressing the current controversies surrounding the budget allocation and resource distribution.
“Having closely monitored the controversies surrounding the 2024 budget and examined some of its provisions and resource allocations, I respectfully appeal for a thorough review of the entire budget,” Obi stated.
He urged both the executive and legislative branches to take swift action, emphasizing the need for immediate budgetary adjustments to redirect resources to critical areas.
“The Executive and Legislative arms should promptly initiate a review of the budget, considering it is still in its early stages of implementation. This will enable urgent reallocation of resources to essential sectors,” Obi urged.
Highlighting key areas of concern, Obi stressed the necessity of allocating adequate funding to address pressing issues such as security, poverty alleviation, food security, and power supply.
“The nation’s resources must be appropriately allocated to crucial sectors such as security, poverty eradication, addressing food insecurity, and improving power supply, especially in these challenging times,” he emphasized.
Obi drew attention to Nigeria’s struggles with hunger, food insecurity, and inadequate power supply, noting the urgent need for intervention.
“We have regrettably become one of the most hunger-stricken nations globally, with soaring food prices making it increasingly difficult for Nigerians to afford basic necessities. Power supply remains woefully inadequate, plunging over 60% of the population into darkness,” Obi lamented.
He also highlighted the alarming rate of out-of-school children, urging concerted efforts to provide access to basic education and alleviate poverty.
“I urge our executive and legislative arms to acknowledge the numerous challenges facing our nation and prioritize the reallocation of resources to these critical areas. Now is the time for profound sacrifices,” Obi concluded.
