“Delayed Federal Disbursements Threaten National Assembly Plenary”

The House of Representatives is facing uncertainty over its plenary scheduled for Tuesday, December 16, following the Federal Government’s delayed payments to local contractors who executed projects under the 2024 and 2025 budgets. Despite previous interventions, contractors have yet to receive their due funds, prompting concerns that legislative business could be disrupted.

Earlier meetings between lawmakers and key federal officials—including the Ministers of Finance and Budget, the Accountant-General, and the Federal Inland Revenue Service Chairman—highlighted dissatisfaction with the implementation of the capital components of recent budgets. Over the past two months, contractors have staged peaceful demonstrations at the National Assembly, demanding settlement of outstanding debts.

The House had resolved that it would not consider the 2026 Appropriation Bill until all pending payments were cleared, resulting in the deferral of 42 bills and multiple committee reports, including proposals for agricultural colleges and specialized institutions. A constitution review report scheduled for discussion was also postponed.

Although the Accountant-General pledged to settle the debts within 48 hours, the deadline passed without payment. Lawmakers expressed disappointment but confirmed ongoing engagement with the executive. The outcome of Tuesday’s plenary remains uncertain, as the House awaits further action from the Federal Government.