The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has rejected the N40 billion allocated for it in 2025 budget, advocating for the N126 billion it proposed to the National Assembly through its joint committee on INEC and Electoral Matters.
Professor Mahmood Yakubu, INEC Chairman, rejected the N40 billion allocation on Friday during a budget defense session before the National Assembly’s joint committee chaired by Senator Sarafadeen Alli (APC, Oyo South).
Prof. Yakubu emphasized that conducting elections in Nigeria has become a major responsibility that requires proper finance. “Our proposal for the 2025 budget requires over N126 billion,” he insisted.
He added, “We have detailed documentation outlining how we intend to allocate this amount.”
Yakubu urged the National Assembly to support the Commission in carrying out its constitutional responsibilities, noting that the N40 billion budget will cover less than one-third of the expected expenses, which exceed N126 billion.
He stated that aside from the off-cycle elections for 21 seats and the Anambra governorship election this year, staff costs related to the new minimum wage will devour the entire N40 billion budget.
He further stated that the insufficiency of the N40 billion allocation compelled INEC to seek intervention funds of N10.5 billion for the Edo and Ondo elections in 2024, as well as an additional N500 million for bye-elections in impacted areas.
Members of the joint committee indicated their support for INEC’s proposal and assured the electoral body that the required amount would be included in the fiscal budget for 2025.
Senator Ireti Kingibe (LP, FCT), a member of the Committee, stated, “The situation at hand is not just about looking for the N126 billion for INEC in the 2025 fiscal year, but ensuring it is provided.”
Following these deliberations, the joint committee met behind closed doors with the INEC Chairman and Federal Commissioners to strategize on how to source and allocate monies for the 2025 budget.