CONTROL OF PUBLIC FUND BY THE LEGISLATURE: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF NIGERIAN NATIONAL ASSEMBLY, AMERICAN CONGRESS AND BRITISH PARLIAMENT

Abstract

This paper looks at the power of the National Assembly (NASS) to control the purse in Nigeria. We look at the constitutional establishment of the NASS and the powers conceded to it in the Constitution on appropriation and public funds generally with a view to probing or interrogating the extent, scope and limit of these powers. We looked at other jurisdictions like Britain and America and we concluded that the NASS has limitless power with regard to ensuring transparency, probity and accountability in the administration of public funds in Nigeria. The National Economic Council (NEC) is neither an alternative to the NASS nor a rival body to the National Assembly by the tenor of the constitution.