Ohanaeze Ndigbo Calls for Thorough Investigation into Alleged N4.64 Billion Expenditure Discrepancies During Fashola’s Tenure
Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the prominent socio-cultural organization representing the Igbo people, has raised serious concerns over recent reports revealing unauthorized payments and questionable expenditures totaling N4.64 billion. The organization has called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to conduct a full-scale investigation into these alarming financial irregularities that reportedly took place during the tenure of former Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola, specifically between 2020 and 2021.
This request for accountability stems from findings by the Office of the Auditor-General of the Federation, which pointed to inconsistencies in the handling of public funds within the Ministry of Works under Mr. Fashola’s leadership. According to Ohanaeze Ndigbo, these revelations have sparked significant public concern, especially as they involve taxpayer money intended for critical infrastructure and public projects.
In an official statement released on Thursday, November 21, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, the Secretary-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, underscored the necessity for transparency. He emphasized that Mr. Fashola must provide a clear explanation regarding the allegations of financial misconduct. “It is incumbent upon him (Fashola) to clarify these allegations, as transparency is non-negotiable in public office,” Isiguzoro stated. He further added, “The Nigerian public, particularly the Ndigbo community, deserves to know the truth behind these serious allegations concerning the potential misuse of public funds.”
Ohanaeze Ndigbo also stressed that these alleged financial irregularities took place solely during Fashola’s term, clarifying that current Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, holds no connection to the N4.64 billion in question, as he was serving as the Governor of Ebonyi State during that period. The organization affirmed that its own investigations into the matter, based on “verified information and indisputable facts,” fully absolve Senator Umahi of any association with these expenditures.
As part of their broader appeal for accountability, Ohanaeze Ndigbo condemned efforts to link Senator Umahi’s recent achievements within the Ministry of Works to the alleged improprieties of his predecessor, emphasizing that any attempts to tarnish Umahi’s record would be firmly opposed. “The group rejects attempts to conflate Senator Umahi’s commendable work as Minister of Works with the alleged improprieties of his predecessor,” they stated.
Highlighting the importance of integrity in public service, Ohanaeze Ndigbo further called on the EFCC, along with the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), to honor their constitutional duty by conducting a diligent investigation into the alleged financial mismanagement under Fashola’s oversight. The group warned that any failure to act decisively would erode public trust in Nigeria’s anti-corruption agencies.
Should investigative authorities fail to act promptly, Ohanaeze Ndigbo asserted its willingness to pursue all legal avenues necessary to compel a thorough inquiry. The organization emphasized that public trust hinges on visible accountability, and that transparency in governance must remain a top priority.
In concluding, Ohanaeze urged Senator Umahi to continue focusing on his critical role in spearheading infrastructure rehabilitation efforts across Nigeria. They noted that his dedication to overseeing essential federal road projects has earned him substantial public support, reflecting the public’s faith in his leadership. The organization reiterated its commitment to fostering accountability, transparency, and justice in public service, holding that these principles are indispensable for Nigeria’s progress.
