Fifty-eight senators from the Northern part of the country have spoken against the relocation of federal agencies to Lagos.
The Senators also alleged that projections and provisions of the N28.7 trillion 2024 budget, are biased against the North.
This was disclosed in a statement signed by the Northern Senators’ spokesperson Senator Suleiman Kawu Summaila (NNPP Kano South) on Monday in Abuja.
OrderPaper recalls that the N28.7 trillion 2024 budget was passed for a third reading by both chambers of the National Assembly on the 30th of December, 2023, and assented to by President Bola Tinubu on Monday, January 1, 2024.
Kawu however, stressed that they are prepared to have a conversation with the executive to correct the apparent imbalance.
The statement titled, “Allocation and distribution of funds in 2024 National Budget and Relocation of some Federal Agencies to Lagos,” read, “As representatives of the people at the national level (Senate), we are committed to addressing the concerns and feelings of our constituents regarding certain decisions and policies put forth by the federal government.
“In particular, lopsidedness in the distribution and allocation of resources in the 2024 budget, and relocation of some federal agencies from Abuja to Lagos are seriously viewed by us as disturbing.
“We understand the importance of fostering a harmonious relationship between the government and its citizens, and it is in this spirit that we are announcing our collective efforts to seek an amicable resolution to these pressing issues, within the confines of our constitution and existing laws.
“We are assuring our constituents that we have taken their concerns seriously and are actively engaging with our colleagues to address these matters effectively.
“We firmly believe in the power of open dialogue and collaboration to bring about positive change for our nation.
“We recognize the significance of our role as a bridge between the people and their government, and it is with great responsibility and dedication that we undertake this task.
“We acknowledge that our constituents have shown great patience and trust in our abilities thus far. It is now our turn to ask for their continued support and understanding during this critical juncture.
“We urge our constituents to remain patient as we diligently explore avenues for dialogues, engage in peaceful negotiations, and deploy legal measures where necessary.”