I Received N1 Billion for Constituency Projects – Ned Nwoko

Senator Ned Nwoko, representing Delta North, has disclosed that he secured N1 billion worth of projects for his constituents during an interview on the ‘Mic On Podcast’ hosted by Seun Okinbaloye, a journalist from Channels Television.

His revelation comes amidst a resurgence of interest in the allocations for constituency projects for federal lawmakers. This interest was sparked by recent claims made by Senator Jarigbe Jarigbe, representing Cross River North, who alleged that some “senior” senators received N500 million for projects.

The Senate has been embroiled in discussions following allegations by Abdul Ningi, the now-suspended senator representing Bauchi Central, who claimed that the 2024 budget was inflated by N3 trillion.

Senator Nwoko expressed a preference for a fixed allocation system for constituency projects, stating, “I’d have preferred a situation where we all know what we are getting — you don’t need to lobby for it and it is a standard thing.”

He emphasized that the funds allocated are not for personal gain but for the development of projects within his senatorial district, ranging from infrastructure like roads and water projects to various training programs.

When asked if he indeed received N1 billion in allocation, Senator Nwoko confirmed, asserting, “Of course, I did. That’s why I am who I am. But these are projects for my people.”

He further highlighted his focus on project delivery rather than the identity of the contractors involved, emphasizing his commitment to the development of Delta North.

These revelations add to the ongoing debate within the Senate, with Ali Ndume, the Chief Whip, recently commenting that presiding and principal officers received more in constituency project allocations because “some animals are more equal than others.”