By Our Political Reporter

Former Governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, has accused President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of authorising the deduction of ₦100 billion every month from the Federation Account without constitutional approval, describing the action as a grave violation that could warrant impeachment.

El-Rufai made the allegation while speaking on national issues, insisting that the deductions have been ongoing for more than 15 months, amounting to a staggering ₦1.5 trillion allegedly taken without the consent of the National Assembly or the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC).

According to him, the Nigerian Constitution clearly outlines the process for withdrawing funds from the Federation Account, stressing that any deduction outside this framework is illegal and undermines the principles of federalism and transparency.

> “You cannot just wake up and remove ₦100 billion monthly from the Federation Account without approval. If this allegation is true, it is a clear constitutional breach. Over 15 months, that is ₦1.5 trillion. That is not a small matter,” El-Rufai said.

The former governor argued that such deductions, if proven, deprive states and local governments of critical funds meant for development, salaries, and social services, especially at a time when subnational governments are grappling with economic hardship and rising governance costs.

El-Rufai further stated that the issue goes beyond politics, adding that accountability and adherence to the rule of law must apply to every administration, regardless of party affiliation.

> “This is not about APC or opposition. It is about the Constitution. Any president, no matter how powerful, must operate within the law,” he added.

He noted that the National Assembly has a constitutional responsibility to investigate the allegation thoroughly and take appropriate action if any wrongdoing is established.

The Presidency has yet to officially respond to the allegation as of the time of filing this report. However, political analysts say the claim, coming from a prominent figure within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), is likely to intensify internal debates within the party and raise fresh concerns about fiscal transparency under the current administration.

Observers also warn that if the allegation gains traction and evidence emerges, it could fuel public scrutiny and legislative action against the Tinubu administration, particularly amid growing economic pressure on Nigerians.

For now, the allegation remains unproven, but it has sparked renewed calls for openness in the management of the Federation Account and strict compliance with constitutional provisions governing public finance.