Senate President Godswill Akpabio has called on President Bola Tinubu to caution ministers in his cabinet who fail to respond to National Assembly invitations.

Akpabio emphasised that 'stubborn ministers' should have no place in the President's cabinet as he believed they were not democrats.

This statement was made during the presentation of the 2025 budget estimates of N49.7 trillion before a joint session of the National Assembly on Wednesday, December 18.

Akpabio stressed that ministers and presidential appointees must respond promptly to the National Assembly's requests to provide necessary explanations regarding their stewardship.

He reminded them that legislators have the constitutional power to take action when they refuse to appear before the National Assembly. This move aims to promote transparency and accountability in the management of public funds.

The Senate President's statement has sparked reactions, with many speculating that the comment was directed at a particular minister. However, Akpabio did not mention any names.

Top government officials, including George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, and Femi Gbajabiamila, the Chief of Staff to the President, attended the presentation of the 2025 budget estimates.

President Tinubu presented the 2025 budget estimates of N49.7 trillion before a joint session of the National Assembly.

The presentation was initially scheduled for Tuesday, December 17, but was rescheduled to Wednesday after the Federal Executive Council meeting held on Monday.