Atiku Challenges Federal Allocation of ₦22.15bn for Traditional Rulers’ Palace Projects
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticised the Federal Government’s decision to allocate ₦22.15 billion for the construction and renovation of palaces for traditional rulers in the 2026 Appropriation Act, arguing that the expenditure raises constitutional and governance concerns.
Speaking through his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, the former presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) questioned whether the Federal Government has the constitutional authority to fund projects linked to traditional institutions, which he said fall primarily under state and local government responsibilities.
Constitutional Questions Raised Over Palace Funding
Atiku argued that Nigeria’s Constitution clearly outlines the responsibilities of each level of government and does not assign the Federal Government responsibility for constructing or renovating royal palaces.
According to him, traditional institutions are generally administered under state laws, making their funding a matter for state and local governments rather than the Federal Government.
He maintained that public funds should only be allocated to projects that fall within the constitutional powers of the authority approving the expenditure.
The former vice president questioned the legal basis for including funding for 106 palace projects in the federal budget, saying greater clarification is needed regarding the constitutional provisions supporting the allocation.
Calls for Greater Transparency
Beyond the constitutional concerns, Atiku expressed reservations about the level of information made available regarding the projects.
He argued that the absence of publicly disclosed details—including the identities of the traditional institutions, project locations and specific funding breakdowns—could undermine public confidence in the allocation.
According to him, transparency is essential whenever significant public funds are appropriated, especially for projects that involve multiple beneficiaries across the country.
He therefore urged relevant government agencies to publish comprehensive information on each of the approved projects.
Request for Project Details
The former vice president called on the Presidency, the Budget Office and relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to release detailed information concerning the palace projects.
Among the details he requested are:
- The identities of the traditional rulers involved.
- The locations of each palace project.
- The amount allocated to every individual project.
- The procurement process to be used for contract awards.
- The legal basis for the expenditure under the Constitution.
He argued that making this information publicly available would promote accountability and strengthen public trust in government spending.
Budget Should Reflect Constitutional Responsibilities
Atiku further stated that a national budget should not only outline government spending but also reflect constitutional compliance and responsible governance.
According to him, public expenditure should remain within the limits established by the Constitution to ensure that government institutions operate according to the rule of law.
He emphasized that traditional rulers deserve recognition and respect but maintained that such respect should be demonstrated through lawful and transparent government actions.
Political Debate Over Public Spending
The comments have added to the broader political conversation surrounding Nigeria’s 2026 budget and government expenditure priorities.
Supporters of increased funding for traditional institutions argue that royal institutions contribute to peacebuilding, cultural preservation and community development.
Others, however, believe public spending should prioritize sectors such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, agriculture and security, particularly during periods of economic pressure.
The differing perspectives continue to fuel public discussions about fiscal responsibility, constitutional governance and budget transparency.
Government Yet to Issue Detailed Response
As of the time of reporting, there has been no detailed official response addressing the constitutional questions raised regarding the palace allocations.
Political analysts expect the issue to remain part of ongoing discussions as implementation of the 2026 budget progresses.
Observers also note that public interest in government spending has continued to increase, with many Nigerians calling for greater openness in the management of national resources.
Read Also: Atiku Urges NASS to Probe Alleged ₦210bn Budget Duplication
Conclusion
Atiku Abubakar’s criticism of the ₦22.15 billion allocation for palace projects has reignited debate over constitutional responsibilities and accountability in public spending.
While supporters of the allocation may argue that traditional institutions play important roles in national development, the former vice president insists that all government expenditures should remain within constitutional limits and be supported by full public disclosure.
The controversy underscores the importance of transparency, fiscal accountability and adherence to constitutional provisions in the implementation of Nigeria’s annual budget.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why is Atiku criticising the palace allocation?
He argues that funding palace construction and renovation is not a constitutional responsibility of the Federal Government and has called for greater transparency over the expenditure.
How much was allocated for the palace projects?
The 2026 Appropriation Act includes ₦22.15 billion for the construction and renovation of 106 palace projects, according to the statement attributed to Atiku’s media office.
What information is Atiku requesting?
He wants the government to publish the locations of the projects, beneficiaries, individual allocations, procurement details and the constitutional basis for the expenditure.
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