In his new book Nigeria Past and Future: Contemplations on Nigeria’s History and Vision for Tomorrow, Obasanjo declared, “In their hunger for illegitimate money, the lawmakers devised what they called constituency projects.”
He argued that these projects were not designed to benefit communities but to provide avenues for legislators to divert public funds.
Obasanjo explained that lawmakers unilaterally insert constituency projects into the budget without consultation or agreement with the executive arm of government.
He said this practice severely distorts national planning, creates deficits, and turns the budget into a caricature of its intended purpose.
The former president contrasted the present situation with his own time in office, recalling that although such practices existed, they were not as bold and widespread.
He noted that under former President Muhammadu Buhari, constituency projects became openly executed with “impunity,” while the presidency failed to intervene, effectively making the executive an accomplice in the alleged abuse.
He also described how lawmakers collude with ministries, departments, and agencies to channel resources through these projects.
According to him, any minister or parastatal head caught in such collusion during his administration faced serious disciplinary action, including removal from office.
Beyond constituency projects, Obasanjo criticized the legislature for watering down bills to serve private interests or those of external sponsors.
He cited the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) bill, which he said was manipulated after some states bribed lawmakers to exclude them from contributing to the fund meant for oil-producing areas.
Obasanjo maintained that the creation and abuse of constituency projects remain one of the clearest demonstrations of lawmakers’ disregard for the constitution and the common good.
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