Nigerians misinformed we embezzled N9.2bn NASS renovation budget – Lawan

Senate President Ahmad Lawan has said that Nigerians were misled by critics to believe that the N9.2 billion budgeted for the rehabilitation of the National Assembly complex had been embezzled by the federal lawmakers.

The legislators were heavily criticized when the roof of the National Assembly complex leaked following a heavy downpour two weeks ago.

Lawan said the money was actually domiciled in the Federal Capital Territory budget and it was still going through the procurement process.

“This is one demonstration and testimony of misperception of the legislature,” the Senate President said at the Conference of Presiding Officers of the Nigerian Legislature ongoing in Abuja.

The theme of the conference is “Public perception of the role of Legislature: Post Legislative Scrutiny and Independence of the Legislature.”

Lawan said: “But you know what, when there was leakage, some of these critics and haters and traducers of the National Assembly said the National Assembly had spent the money. They have finished the rehabilitation. Look at what is happening. They didn’t even care to find out what really happened. So, they went to town.

“Without this legislature, there is no democracy. The National Assembly and legislature across the country are people’s institutions, not members of the National Assembly’s institution or state assembly members’ institution. It’s the public. It’s the people.

“So, I will always advise that members of the public, especially those minorities who have access to media should please help our democracy prosper. Tell the true story. Inform correctly. Publicise rightly. We welcome criticisms,” Lawan said.

The Senate president also advised the outspoken members of the public to give credit to the legislature when there are evidences of good performance.