News
Controversy Deepens Over 2026 Budget as Palace, Religious Project Allocations Raise Eyebrows
By Derick Peretengboro
Nigeria’s proposed 2026 national budget has sparked widespread debate following the discovery of billions of naira earmarked for palace-related and religious projects, with many Nigerians questioning the government’s spending priorities.
Public accountability advocates and civil society organisations have expressed concern over budget provisions that reportedly allocate significant sums for the renovation, construction and furnishing of royal palaces, as well as churches and mosques, despite the country’s economic challenges and growing fiscal deficit.
According to findings by transparency campaigners, more than ₦22 billion was proposed for projects linked to traditional rulers’ palaces, while over ₦8 billion was set aside for religious infrastructure across different ministries and government agencies. Critics argue that many of the agencies involved do not have constitutional responsibilities relating to religious or royal institutions.
The revelations have generated heated reactions from citizens, policy analysts and opposition figures, who believe public funds should be directed toward pressing sectors such as healthcare, education, infrastructure and security instead of projects viewed as less urgent.
The Northern Christian Association also raised concerns over what it described as an imbalance in the distribution of funds for religious projects. The group called on the Federal Government to ensure fairness, transparency and compliance with constitutional principles in the implementation of the budget.
The proposed 2026 budget, valued at approximately ₦68.32 trillion, is expected to be financed with projected revenues of about ₦34 trillion, leaving a substantial budget deficit. Analysts warn that such spending decisions could intensify public scrutiny as lawmakers begin deliberations on the appropriation bill.
As discussions continue, transparency advocates have urged Nigerians to closely monitor budget implementation and demand accountability from government institutions to ensure public resources are used effectively.
By staff Reporter Rukevwe Odeh
A group of stakeholders in Warri has announced its decision to withdraw support for the incumbent member representing the Warri Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Thomas Ereyitomi, ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The group, while explaining its position, cited what it described as dissatisfaction with the lawmaker’s performance and representation of the constituency.
The stakeholders subsequently declared their support for Comrade Jude Ukori Mulade as their preferred candidate for the 2027 House of Representatives election.
According to the group, its decision followed concerns over the level of representation and development delivered to the constituency under the current administration.
The stakeholders said they were seeking a representative who would be more responsive to the needs of the people and more committed to advancing issues affecting residents across the constituency.
They urged other political stakeholders and eligible voters in Warri to consider Mulade’s candidacy as the 2027 elections approach.
The group’s endorsement adds to the growing political activities and realignments expected to shape the contest for the Warri Federal Constituency seat ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Ereyitomi, who currently represents the constituency in the House of Representatives, has yet to publicly respond to the allegations contained in the group’s statement.
By staff Reporter Rukevwe Odeh
Residents and road users along the Warri Airport Road, particularly the section near Federal Government College in Warri South Local Government Area of Delta State, have continued to contend with recurring flooding despite years of road construction and rehabilitation efforts.
The affected stretch is frequently submerged following heavy rainfall, with inadequate drainage identified as a major factor contributing to the persistent flooding.
The recurring situation has raised concerns among motorists, residents and other road users, who say the condition of the road continues to disrupt movement and create difficulties for commuters whenever there is significant rainfall.
The development has also renewed calls for attention to the drainage system along the route, with residents hoping that a lasting solution will be implemented to prevent the road from repeatedly becoming flooded.
By staff Reporter: Rukevwe Odeh
A heavy downpour has left the popular NNPC Housing Complex Road, also known as Ekpan Link Road, submerged in floodwater in Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta State.
The rainfall caused significant water accumulation along the busy road, affecting movement and creating difficulties for motorists and other road users.
The condition of the road has renewed concerns over flooding and drainage challenges in the area, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall.
Residents and commuters are expected to exercise caution while using the affected route as efforts to manage the situation continue.
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