The decision was made by the House of Representatives to investigate claims of fraudulent activities in contractor payments by officials from the Federal Ministries of Finance and the Office of the Accountant-General. During the plenary session, a motion was put forward by lawmakers urging the government to enhance internal controls and impose strict penalties on individuals engaged in corrupt practices in payment processes. The House also recommended the immediate implementation of a transparent digital payment system to prevent undue influence in contract payments and ensure prompt disbursement following due procedures.
Emphasizing the constitutional principles of transparency and accountability in managing public funds, the House Leader highlighted the obligation to eradicate corruption and misuse of power as stipulated in the 1999 Constitution. Reports have surfaced indicating contractors being pressured to provide kickbacks or facing unwarranted deductions by Ministry of Finance officials during payment processing.
The prevalence of corrupt practices in contract payments not only hampers critical infrastructure projects but also leads to job losses and economic adversity, contradicting the government’s efforts towards economic recovery. Such misconduct deters credible investors and undermines confidence in the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability.
Failure to address these allegations could result in contractors losing trust in government dealings, resulting in stalled economic progress and incomplete infrastructure projects nationwide. The urgency for a prompt and resolute response aligns with the powers vested in the National Assembly to investigate matters related to law enforcement and public finances under Section 88(1) and (2).