Rivers state lawmaker “Stop misrepresenting facts for political gains” – Minister tells Obi

The minister of information and national orientation, Mohammed Idris, has advised Labour Party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, against misrepresenting facts for political gains.

Idris gave the charge in a statement by his special assistant on media, Rabiu Ibrahim, on Thursday.

The minister disagreed with Obi over his comments on the 2023 supplementary budget signed into law by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday.

Obi had described the budget as insensitive to the plight of ordinary Nigerians.

But the minister maintained that the budget was  “a bold and pragmatic response” to the pressing and economic challenges Nigeria currently faces.

Idris urged the Obi to take the time and effort to acquaint himself with the details of the N2.17 trillion 2023 supplementary budget, which includes allocations for essential sectors: security, agriculture and food security, works and housing, wage increase for workers, student loan scheme and social safety nets, among others.

“The broad provisions in the supplementary budget is a reflection of President Tinubu’s strong desire and eagerness to support the vital functions of government, address urgent security needs, and fast-track the country’s recovery process from the economic impact occasioned by the removal of fuel subsidy,” Idris said.

Idris explained that the supplementary budget was derived from the active engagement and consultation with relevant stakeholders who ensured that the budgetary provisions aligned with the needs and expectations of Nigerians.

Idris emphasized that all items in the supplementary budget have been meticulously scrutinised to ensure efficient utilisation of public funds.