Bauchi Assembly To Spend N132 Million on 64 Chairs, Tables for Lawmakers

The Bauchi State House of Assembly is under scrutiny following reports of its plan to spend ₦132 million on the procurement of 64 chairs and tables for lawmakers. This expenditure has raised eyebrows, with critics questioning the justification for such a large sum on furniture alone.

According to documents from the assembly, the proposed spending is intended to “upgrade facilities” in the legislative chambers, aiming to provide lawmakers with more comfortable seating and workspaces. However, the breakdown of the cost implies that each chair and table set would amount to over ₦2 million, sparking public outrage and accusations of financial mismanagement.

Observers and civil society groups have expressed concern over the perceived extravagance, especially considering the economic challenges faced by the state and the country. They argue that such funds could be better spent on essential services like education, healthcare, and infrastructure development.

In defense of the expenditure, assembly officials claim that the procurement process adhered to due process and that the furniture being purchased is of “high quality” and designed to last for decades. They also noted that the upgrade is part of broader efforts to improve the working environment for lawmakers, ensuring they have adequate facilities to perform their legislative duties effectively.

Public reaction has been mixed, with some residents supporting the modernization of the assembly complex, while others see it as a misuse of public funds. Calls for greater transparency and accountability in government spending have grown louder, with activists urging anti-corruption agencies to investigate the procurement process.

As debates around the expenditure continue, the Bauchi State Assembly faces mounting pressure to justify the controversial spending and demonstrate that public resources are being used in the best interest of the people.