Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has accused the Federal Government of spending ₦8.83 trillion in 2025 outside the approved national budget, describing the alleged development as evidence of what he called “grand corruption.”
Obi made the allegation while reacting to the recent International Monetary Fund (IMF) consultation report, claiming the expenditure was carried out without legislative approval or proper administrative oversight.
According to him, the ₦8.83 trillion allegedly spent outside the budget represents about 2 percent of Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and exceeds 35 percent of the country’s 2025 capital budget.
He further claimed the amount is larger than the combined allocations to Nigeria’s education and health sectors.
The former Anambra State governor argued that if properly managed, the funds could have significantly improved healthcare, education, infrastructure and job creation across the country.
Obi also alleged that the development reflects a pattern of corruption under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, accusing the government of failing to meet the expectations of Nigerians.
“The IMF now reveals that about ₦8.83 trillion in expenditure undertaken in 2025 is not reflected in the budget. This expenditure is not budgeted and is therefore not under legislative oversight or administrative scrutiny.
“This is horrible. If such an amount is properly used and accounted for, it could transform Nigeria’s public health and education sectors.
“This recent revelation proves that the APC government is grossly corrupt, incompetent, and insensitive.
“With the growing poverty and the urgent need for significant upgrades to social and physical infrastructure, a responsible government would ensure that ₦8.83 trillion is prudently utilised.
“It is now time for Nigerian citizens to rise within the law and hold this administration to account,” Obi said.
His comments have since generated widespread debate on social media, with supporters backing his criticism while others questioned his interpretation of the IMF report and the conclusions he drew from it.
As of the time of filing this report, the Federal Government has not officially responded to Obi’s allegations.
See his post below…
How did this story make you feel?
Join the conversation
Share a thoughtful response. Submissions may be reviewed before appearing.
