The Allied Peoples Movement (APM) has called on President Bola Tinubu to publicly disclose how funds allocated to the Regional Development Commissions will be spent, emphasizing the need for transparency before disbursement. The party insists Nigerians have a right to know the details of the proposed projects, their locations, contractors involved, and mechanisms for monitoring and independent scrutiny. This demand was made in a statement released by the APM’s National Publicity Secretary, Yusuf Abubakar, who stressed that accountability must precede any release of public funds.
Abubakar stated, “Nigerians deserve to know where the money will go, what projects it will finance and how implementation will be tracked and independently scrutinised.” The APM expressed concern over the timing of President Tinubu’s directive to release the funds, noting that the National Assembly had already approved a N1.3 trillion budget for the Regional Development Commissions back in March. The party questioned why the directive came just months before the general elections, raising suspicions about potential political motives behind the sudden push for fund release.
The APM also raised alarms over past mismanagement of similar funds, alleging that the commissions have become conduits for inflated contracts and incomplete projects. While the party did not provide specific evidence to support this claim, it urged the government to implement stronger oversight measures before any disbursement occurs. According to Abubakar, the public should be given full information including the allocation to each regional commission, the exact amounts, project locations, and due diligence certifications from credible auditors.
The party’s position reflects growing public anxiety over the use of large-scale infrastructure funds in Nigeria, especially as election season approaches. Citizens are increasingly demanding proof that taxpayer money is being used efficiently and without corruption. The APM’s call for transparency aligns with broader civic movements pushing for open governance and fiscal responsibility across all levels of government.
With the N1.3 trillion budget already approved, the delay in releasing funds has sparked debate over whether administrative bottlenecks or political considerations are at play. The APM’s demand for detailed disclosures could set a precedent for greater accountability in future development projects. As Nigeria continues to grapple with economic challenges and infrastructure deficits, ensuring that these funds reach intended beneficiaries remains critical. The coming weeks may reveal whether the government will respond to calls for openness or proceed with minimal public input.
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