The Senate is presently conducting an investigation into 774 federal government agencies based on allegations of financial misconduct outlined in the 2019 report of the Auditor-General for the Federation (AuGF).
Senator Aliyu Wadada, the Chairman of the Senate Public Accounts Committee (SPAC) representing Nasarawa West under the SDP, revealed this during a discussion with journalists at his residence in Keffi, Nasarawa State.
Wadada emphasized the committee’s commitment to carrying out its duties diligently for the benefit of the nation, asserting that its intention is not to target individuals unfairly. He mentioned that the 10th National Assembly, with backing from President Bola Tinubu and key figures in the country’s economy, intends to amend the 2007 Procurement Act to prevent financial misconduct loopholes before they occur.
While making this statement, Wadada also urged leaders of government agencies at the federal, state, and local levels to uphold self-discipline and a sense of accountability in fulfilling their duties.
The Senator representing Nasarawa West emphasized the vital role of morally upright citizens in implementing laws, stating that regardless of how well-crafted a law may be, it requires individuals with a sense of integrity to enforce it.
Wadada recounted his efforts upon assuming the role of Chairman of the Senate Public Accounts Committee (SPAC), where he stressed the importance of appointing a substantive Auditor General for the Federation (AuGF) to President Bola Tinubu. Following his plea, the President responded by appointing a substantive AuGF.
He noted that while reports for the fiscal years 2020, 2021, and 2022 were not yet available, the committee was able to act upon the 2019 Auditor General’s report. Wadada explained that although the 2020 report was prepared during his tenure, it couldn’t be signed by the acting AuGF at that time.
“Currently, the 2020 Auditor General’s report is available, with the substantive AuGF having signed it.
This progress serves as confirmation that the Presidency, led by President Bola Tinubu, is accessible, responsive, and supportive of the public accounts committees in both chambers of the National Assembly.”
“We have commenced our work on the 2019 Auditor General’s report that’s currently under review. As the head of this critical committee, I’ve consistently emphasized that our aim is not to target individuals or institutions unfairly.
“Our primary goal is to promote transparency and accountability in the management of public funds. We seek to understand past mistakes, their causes, and how to prevent their recurrence in the future.
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“I’ve refrained from publicizing our activities because of the sensitive nature of our task. Publicizing every detail from the Auditor General’s reports could potentially create discord between citizens and the government.
“Many issues stem not only from corruption but also from systemic flaws. Inadequate documentation in financial reports can lead to inaccurate audits and subsequent problems.
“We’re diligently addressing the tasks at hand. While we’ve made some progress, we continue to engage with heads of ministries, departments, and agencies of the Federal Government.”