The House of Representatives descended into a rowdy session on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, following a motion to summon President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over the delay in implementing the 2025 budget. The chaos erupted after Hon. Benedict Etanabene, representing the Okpe/Sapele/Uvwie federal constituency in Delta State, raised a point of privilege concerning a controversial circular issued by the Accountant-General of the Federation, Shamseldeen Ogunjimi.
Circular Halts Constituency Project Payments
According to reports from TheCable, the circular, dated June 29, 2026, directed all federal ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) to immediately cease processing payments for constituency and zonal intervention projects (ZIPs) unless they have been formally vetted by the Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs. Etanabene argued that this directive would further obstruct the execution of the Appropriation Act, which had already been signed into law.
Lawmakers Clash Over Presidential Accountability
The motion to summon President Tinubu divided the House, with some lawmakers supporting the call for accountability on the 2025 budget implementation, while others opposed it, leading to heated exchanges and disorder. The Speaker struggled to maintain order as members shouted over one another. Etanabene insisted that the President must appear before the House to explain the delays and the implications of the circular on development projects across the country.
Impact on Constituency Projects
The accountant-general's circular has raised concerns among lawmakers, who fear that the halt in payments could stall critical infrastructure and community projects funded through the ZIPs. These projects are often used by legislators to address local needs, and the disruption could affect their political standing. The House is expected to deliberate further on the matter, with a committee likely to be set up to investigate the circular and its compliance with the Appropriation Act.
The rowdy session highlights the growing tension between the executive and legislative arms over budget implementation and fiscal transparency. As of press time, the Presidency had not issued an official response to the motion or the circular.
