Reps: We received constituency palliatives from FG — no money collected

Akin Rotimi, spokesperson of the house of representatives, says the green chamber “lobbied” palliatives from the federal government for constituents.

In a statement issued on Thursday, Rotimi said the palliatives are being distributed by the ministry of agriculture.

He added that no money was given or will be disbursed to any lawmaker as palliative to constituents.

Rotimi was reacting to claims that each member received palliatives in the sum of N100 million.

While admitting that lawmakers are indeed receiving palliatives, Rotimi didn’t specify the form of the items.

“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,” the statement reads.

“The pro-people position of the Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen-led 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.

“The procurement process is at different stages depending on the constituency, but 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 is being handled by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security.

“As it is customary during this season, honourable members, in their respective constituencies, celebrate with their constituents in various ways, in individual capacities.

“These gestures should not be misconstrued as palliatives, and honourable members will continue to engage at the grassroots to clarify these issues in order not to cause disaffection for colleagues in other constituencies.”

Rotimi said the lower legislative chamber will “continue to engage and work” to earn the trust of Nigerians.

“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 statement added.