LIVE UPDATES
The Centre for Public Accountability (CPA), in partnership with various civic organizations, has urged for an inquiry into purported financial misconduct within the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB).
The organization claims that N7.7 billion ($4.7 million) was improperly allocated without the required approvals, breaching procurement regulations.
In a statement released on Saturday, CPA Executive Director Dr. Ebenezer Oladapo accused NCDMB Executive Secretary Mr. Felix Ogbe of sanctioning the spending without adhering to due process.
The CPA noted that the amount exceeded the approval thresholds set by the Ministerial Tenders Board (MTB) and expressed concerns regarding the payments processed through the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).
It further claimed that the transactions were conducted without verifiable evidence that the consultant receiving the funds had recouped any amount to warrant the payment.
The organization cautioned that such actions compromise President Bola Tinubu’s anti-corruption initiatives and efforts to enhance accountability in public institutions.
The CPA has called on President Tinubu to promptly commence a thorough and independent investigation into the financial dealings of the NCDMB under its current leadership.
It also revealed intentions to petition the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), and other pertinent agencies to guarantee a comprehensive investigation.
Moreover, the CPA has issued a seven-day ultimatum for government action, warning that a lack of response would compel the organization to mobilize legal and civic actions to hold accountable those responsible.
“We will not remain idle while public officials, who are entrusted with the nation’s resources, indulge in reckless financial misconduct without facing consequences,” the statement emphasized.
The organization reiterated its dedication to fostering transparency, accountability, and integrity in public financial management, asserting that public funds must be managed in strict adherence to due process.
Rocketparrot News reminds that the NCDMB had defended its expenditures following reports of alleged financial misappropriation in various media outlets.
The Board confirmed the organization of a strategic workshop at the cost of N580 million, asserting that it was part of its 10-year Strategic Roadmap aimed at enhancing local content in the oil and gas sector. In response to allegations that N7.7 billion was misallocated to questionable contracts, the Board insisted that all expenditures were compliant with due process and subjected to stringent government oversight.
