By Erewunmi Peace

The National Assembly of Nigeria is intensifying its oversight of public finances, particularly in light of funding proposals for the 2027 general elections.

The move comes as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) requested ₦873.78 billion to conduct nationwide elections, a significant increase compared with the ₦313 billion allocated for the 2023 polls.

Parliamentary committees are closely reviewing the budget, emphasizing transparency, accountability, and proper use of public funds.

Lawmakers have indicated that agencies, including INEC, may face stricter conditions for fund releases, and allocations could be withheld in cases of irregularities or non-compliance with audit requirements.

“The National Assembly will ensure that every naira spent is accounted for.

We are committed to maintaining fiscal discipline, especially with the 2027 elections approaching,” a committee spokesperson said.

Experts note that this scrutiny reflects the Assembly’s growing role in managing government expenditure, ensuring that electoral funding is released responsibly and used efficiently.

The debate is also seen as part of broader efforts to strengthen financial governance in Nigeria, ahead of one of the country’s most important electoral cycles.

Observers say that how the Assembly manages the election budget could influence the credibility and smooth conduct of the 2027 polls, as well as set a precedent for accountability in future national expenditures.