Senators Clash Over Funding Sources for Newly Created Zonal Development Commissions

On Thursday, the Nigerian Senate saw heated debate over funding sources for the newly established Zonal Development Commissions, recently signed into law by President Bola Tinubu. Each geopolitical zone now has its own development commission, except for the North Central zone, where legislation is still under consideration. The contention centered around the source of funds, as senators reviewed the South-South Development Commission Establishment Bill 2024, which is being used as a model for the other commissions.

A report from the Senate Committee on Special Duties proposed that the federal government allocate 15% of member states’ statutory allocations to fund these commissions. This suggestion sparked concerns among several senators, including Yahaya Abdullahi (PDP, Kebbi North), Wasiu Eshinlokun (APC, Lagos East), and Seriake Dickson (PDP, Bayelsa West), who argued that this funding approach could lead to a constitutional dispute with state governments. They highlighted the possibility of legal challenges, as governors might resist any deduction from funds allocated for their states, given that these allocations support critical expenditures like wages and development projects.

Senator Abdullahi voiced concerns about potential legal battles: “The 15% statutory allocation from member states, as recommended for their zonal development commissions, could be contested by some state governments.” His caution was echoed by other senators, who expressed doubt over the approach outlined in the committee’s report.

Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin attempted to clarify that the proposal did not imply direct deductions from state allocations. He explained, “The 15% statutory allocation is not about deduction. The federal government would fund the commissions using this calculation from the Consolidated Revenue Fund.” However, skepticism remained as lawmakers questioned how this funding would be achieved without tapping into states’ statutory allocations.

Amid the intense discussions, Senate President Godswill Akpabio intervened to restore calm. He reminded his colleagues of their authority under Section 162(4) of the 1999 Constitution, which empowers the National Assembly to appropriate funds from the Consolidated Revenue Fund or the Federation Account. Akpabio added, “The 15% recommendation stands, and if any party wishes to challenge it in court, they are free to do so.”

This ongoing debate reflects the complex dynamics at play as lawmakers work to balance federal and state interests in the rollout of these regional development initiatives.