INEC Proposes N126bn Budget For 2025, Asks NASS For Approval
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has proposed the sum of N126 billion for its 2025 budget.
The Chairman of the Commission, Prof Mahmood Yakubu, made the presentation while defending the 2024 budget implementation before the National Assembly on Friday.
He pleaded with the legislature to approve the 2025 budget, which was nearly three times the size of the one approved last year.
“Our proposal for 2025, the Commission requires the sum of N126 billion. Therefore, we will need the support of the National Assembly members to ensure that we are adequately funded for the duties that are entrusted to us, and that the majority of these duties are constitutional, not just those that are contained in the Electoral Act,” said Prof. Yakubu.
Prof. Mahmood Yakubu expressed concern about the exorbitant and burdensome cost of holding elections in Nigeria.
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He cited the fact that INEC had a budget of N40 billion last year, which was significantly lower than the N80 billion that the organization had initially requested, despite being one of the nation’s largest employers.
He emphasized how much money has been expended on the commission’s ability to fulfill its responsibilities.
He urged the lawmakers to convene a retreat where both the legislature and INEC could collaborate, exchange ideas, and come together to address the pressing issues that the electoral process in Nigeria faces.
“We need a major conversation, the commission cannot continue conducting election all year round”, he said.
Source: Channels TV
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