Senate President Godswill Akpabio on Monday inaugurated an ad-hoc committee to investigate the N30 trillion Ways and Means Advances released by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to fund projects under former President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration.
The inauguration of the committee followed the adopted resolution of the Senate Joint Committees on Banking, Insurance and other Financial Institutions; Finance; National Planning; Agriculture; and Appropriations.
Inaugurating the ad hoc committee, the Senate President urged the members to be impartial, uncompromising, and confidential in handling the investigation.
He reminded them of the 10th Senate’s believe in transparency, accountability, and good governance.
Akpabio directed the committee members to prove their commitments as Nigerians waited to know how the huge sums of money were used.
Akpabio urged the committee to keep its findings away from the prying eyes of journalists.
He said: “The constitution of this committee is a testament to the Senate’s unwavering commitment to transparency, accountability, and good governance. It reflects our dedication to addressing the concerns of the Nigerian people and upholding the principles of democracy.
“To the members of this esteemed committee, I implore you to approach your responsibilities with the utmost sense of patriotism, professionalism, and integrity.
“Your investigation demands impartiality and fairness, always keeping the public interest and the welfare of our nation at the forefront.
“We must leave no stone unturned in our pursuit of the truth. Therefore, conduct thorough inquiries and dig out information that will assist the Senate in making laws for the betterment of our country.”
The fund, which passed through the National Assembly, was without details, despite the commitment of the Executive to do so.
The committee, which has 17 members, is chaired by Jibrin Isah, representing Kogi East.
Isah assured the Senate of the committee’s commitment to do a thorough job.
The inauguration of the committee was attended by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun; CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso; the Accountant General of the Federation, Oluwatoyin Madein; the Auditor-General of the Federation, Shaakaa Chira; the Director General of the Debt Management Office (DMO), Patience Oniha, among others.
