Benue State University, Makurdi

The Legislature and the Budget Process in Nigeria’s Fourth Republic: The Benue State Experience, 1999-2007

Patrick Ukase, Ph.D

Abstract

This essay critically examines budget process as undertaken by the legislature in Nigeria generally and Benue State in particular in the fourth republic, precisely from1999-2007. Using the performance of various budgets within this period as a basis for analysis, this essay reveals that these budgets performed dismally, especially the capital expenditure and this had far- reaching implications for the development of the state. Juxtaposing capital and recurrent expenditures profiles for these respective years, the essay contends that the inability of the capital budget to perform was a clear indication that the government was unable to deliver in virtually all sectors of the economy, especially in the provision of infrastructures in the rural and urban areas. Granted that the budget is initiated by the executive, the essay argues that the legislature is to share in the blame for this failure because of its constitutional responsibility, not only in examining and approving budgets, but also in over-sighting and ensuring that same is implemented according to laid down specifications. This essay strongly asserts that the ends of the current democratization process are not likely to be met unless the legislature takes its duties and responsibilities as provided in the constitution more seriously.

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