Lagos, Nigeria - Anger has gripped Nigerians after an explosive report by Sahara Reporters alleged that President Bola Ahmed Tinubui approved N3 billion for verifying the country's social register. The report further claimed that the Chief of Staff to the Vice President, Femi Gbaja Biamila, facilitated the approval.
The social register, established in 2016, identifies and registers poor and vulnerable Nigerians eligible for government assistance programs. While aimed at combating poverty and inequality, the register has faced criticism for its opaqueness and alleged manipulation.
Sahara Reporters' report, yet to be independently verified, sparked a firestorm on social media. Many Nigerians expressed outrage, questioning the rationality of spending an exorbitant N3 billion on verifying identities, particularly amidst pressing economic challenges.
"N3 billion to verify people already verified? This government has no shame," tweeted prominent activist Aisha Yesufu. "How can they justify stealing from the mouths of the most vulnerable Nigerians?"
Others lamented the lack of transparency and accountability surrounding the alleged funds. "Where is the breakdown of how this N3 billion will be spent? This government operates in the shadows, treating public funds like their personal piggy bank," commented political analyst Chimamanda Ngozi.
The N3 billion verification is particularly disconcerting considering the persistent criticisms of the social register itself. Accusations of manipulation and exclusion of genuine beneficiaries have plagued the program since its inception. Critics claim powerful individuals and politicians influence the register to favor their cronies or exclude certain regions.
"This N3 billion could have revitalized healthcare centers in rural areas or provided educational scholarships to underprivileged children," said economist Dr. Nnanna Obiakor. "Instead, it's being thrown at a program notorious for its flaws, furthering the exclusion of those who genuinely need help."
Calls for an immediate investigation into the alleged N3 billion spending and a complete overhaul of the social register are reverberating across the country. The incident has reignited discussions about corruption and misuse of public funds under the Buhari administration.
"This is not just about N3 billion," concluded lawyer Festus Keyamo. "It's about accountability, transparency, and ensuring that the vulnerable are not robbed of their rightful help. We demand answers and immediate action."
Reports are emerging that the government plans to address the allegations soon. Whether their explanation will quell the public's outrage remains to be seen.
#EndSocialRegisterWaste #VerifyWithTransparency #WhereAreTheVulnerable
