Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the foremost Igbo socio-cultural organisation, has called for the probe of former Minister for Works, Mr Babatunde Fashola, following recent revelations from the Office of the Auditor-General of the Federation that outlined significant discrepancies in the financial dealings handled by the immediate minister.
According to the Igbo Apex Group, citizens of Nigeria deserve to know the truth of the allegations concerning mismanagement of public funds worth N4.64 billion between 2020 and 2021.
Ohanaeze made their feelings known in a statement signed by its Secretary General Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro on Thursday while exonerating the incumbent minister for Works, David Umahi.
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the foremost Igbo socio-cultural organisation, hereby issues a resolute call for a full-scale investigation into the alarming report concerning unauthorised payments and expenditures amounting to N4.64 billion during the fiscal years 2020-2021, which have been attributed to Mr Babatunde Fashola, the immediate past Minister of Works and Housing. This exigency for accountability cannot be overstated, as the integrity of our financial governance is paramount to the trust and well-being of our citizenry.
“Recent revelations from the Office of the Auditor-General of the Federation have outlined significant discrepancies in the financial dealings handled by Mr Fashola during his tenure. It is incumbent upon him to clarify these allegations, as transparency is non-negotiable in public office. The citizens of Nigeria, particularly Ndigbo, deserve to know the truth of these serious allegations concerning the mismanagement of public funds.
“For clarity, it is essential to highlight that during the fiscal years under scrutiny, the current Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, was in office as the Governor of Ebonyi State from 2015 to 2023. Ohanaeze Ndigbo asserts, based on verified information and indisputable facts, that Senator Umahi bears no culpability regarding the unauthorised payments and expenditures of N4.64 billion that occurred during Mr. Fashola’s tenure as Minister. This delineation of accountability is crucial in dispelling any unfounded insinuations directed towards Senator Umahi, who has demonstrated exemplary service and dedication to the people.
Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, the Secretary-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, stated, “In our quest for justice and accountability, Ohanaeze Ndigbo has undertaken a thorough forensic investigation into the allegations of misappropriation labelled against Mr. Fashola. Our findings categorically exonerate Senator Umahi from any involvement in the financial misconduct alleged. Furthermore, we unequivocally reject any attempts to conflate Senator Umahi’s commendable work as Minister of Works with the alleged improprieties of his predecessor.
“The organisation emphasises that these allegations, which carry significant implications, must not, under any circumstance, be allowed to be brushed aside. Public trust is predicated upon transparent governance, and it is crucial that the EFCC and ICPC engage diligently to fulfil their constitutional obligations in this regard. Ohanaeze Ndigbo stands ready to explore all legal avenues necessary to compel these agencies to act decisively and oversee a thorough investigation into Mr Fashola’s actions as Minister during these pivotal years.
“It is of utmost importance that Senator Umahi remains focused on his pivotal role in infrastructural development, as he has been tasked with overseeing the rehabilitation of federal roads and has garnered widespread support from the Nigerian populace. The numerous votes of confidence from various stakeholders reflect the trust and respect associated with his leadership. It is deeply regrettable that any distractions arising from misleading narratives or media sensationalism seek to undermine the substantial contributions he is making to our nation’s progress.
“In conclusion, Ohanaeze Ndigbo cordially yet firmly demands the initiation of a comprehensive investigation into the actions of Barrister Babatunde Fashola regarding the unauthorised payments and expenditures attributed to him. We assert our commitment to supporting the pursuit of justice, truth, and accountability in our public institutions. Let us all remain vigilant in ensuring that public service and responsibility triumph over ambiguity and misinformation.”
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