Lawmakers Deny N200m Cash Palliative Allegation

The House of Representatives has denied the allegation that it received N200 million each as palliative for Constituents during the yuletide from President Bola Tinubu but stated that the procurement and distribution of palliatives is being handled by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security.

Speaking on Friday, the Spokesman and Chairman, of the House Committee on Media and Publicity of the House of Representatives Rep. Akin Rotimi said no legislator has, nor will be given any money for palliatives.

”The House of Representatives is monitoring a trending topic on social media, relating to the distribution of palliatives by Honourable Members, and in line with our Legislative Agenda which promises responsive, timely, and accurate information, the People’s House considers it necessary to respond to Nigerians to clarify issues.

“To be clear, no legislator has, nor will be given any money for palliatives. While, as politicians, Honourable Members may be visible during the process of distribution, and rightfully take the credit for bringing succour to the people, the procurement and distribution of the palliatives are being handled by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security.

“The pro-people position of the Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen Ph.D. – led the House of Representatives, on the need for the Federal Government to expedite palliative measures to support vulnerable Nigerians, is well documented. This is on account of the hardship Nigerians are experiencing following the removal of fuel subsidies last year.

“Our leadership successfully lobbied for additional palliatives for our constituents across the country, which is being handled by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, in line with extant Public Procurement Laws.

“We remain committed to ensuring diligent oversight in the implementation of the 2024 Appropriation Act – Budget of Renewed Hope – which holds the promise of bringing sustainable positive impact on the lives of Nigerians so that they can legitimately fend for themselves in dignity, and also ensure no vulnerable person is left behind.

“The 10th Assembly of the Federal House of Representatives is the People’s House, and we will continue to engage and work to earn the trust of Nigerians as your elected representatives.”

He urged the people not to misconstrue gestures done by Representatives to their Constituents as palliative from the federal government as the lawmakers will continue to engage at the grassroots level to meet the needs of the people.