Adamawa lawmaker Jafar Abubakar shares N224 million cash to youths and friends in constituency. Image credit:SaharaReporters
Abubakar represents Mubi North, Mubi South, and Maiha Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives.
The reported disbursement included N124 million shared among youths as part of what he described as empowerment.
An additional N100 million was allegedly given to his childhood friends, described as “not well-to-do.”
Sources claimed the cash was withdrawn from a commercial bank in mint notes and handed out directly.
Adamawa Lawmaker Distributes Cash To Youths
The lawmaker’s office has not released an official statement confirming the details of the distribution.
Critics online condemned the move as an example of Nigeria’s political culture of direct cash handouts.
A Facebook user, Daniel Pablo, wrote: “This is why Nigeria can never work.”
Another commentator, King Mathew, said: “This is the time for EFCC to show workings but no they’re wait for yahoo boys with laptops and iphones.”
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission is Nigeria’s main anti-graft agency.
Nigerian Politics And Cash Distribution
Public spending and direct cash distribution have long been points of concern in Nigerian politics.
In May, another federal lawmaker disclosed huge allocations for constituency projects following the removal of the fuel subsidy by President Bola Tinubu.
The legislator claimed no Senator received less than N2 billion in project funds.
He added that House of Representatives members received at least N1 billion each.
The statement was made at a public event in Osun State, drawing significant criticism nationwide.
Debate Over Constituency Project Spending
Transparency advocates argue that the system of constituency project allocation is often abused for political gain.
The funds are frequently referred to as budget padding, a practice heavily debated in Nigeria’s legislature.
Observers say the process lacks transparency, with few projects verifiably executed on the ground.
International groups, including Transparency International, have highlighted Nigeria’s challenges in combating systemic corruption.
The Adamawa case has further fueled calls for closer scrutiny of constituency funds and personal disbursements by elected officials.
Public Reaction To N224 Million Distribution
Online reactions reflect broader frustration with Nigeria’s governance and economic hardship.
The country is experiencing high unemployment and inflation rates that directly impact millions of citizens.
For many, the image of mint cash being handed out by lawmakers reinforces anger over inequality.
Related: Zamfara governor disburses ₦1.1bn grants to support 3,060 local businesses
Debate continues over whether such distributions amount to empowerment or political patronage.
As of now, no federal agency has announced an investigation into the Adamawa disbursement.
