Reps probe MDAs over non-implementation of 2021 Appropriation Act, despite release of about 60% fund

…as Minority Leader tasks Buhari on anti-graft war

The leadership of House of Representatives on Thursday unveiled plans
to probe allegation bothering on non-implementation of the 2021 Appropriation Act, despite the release of about 60 percent of funds to various Ministries Departments and Agencies (MDAs).

The resolution was passed sequel to the adoption of a motion on Matter of urgent national importance titled: ‘Incessant abuse and disregard of the 2021 Appropriation Act by Ministries, Departments and Agencies
(MDAs) of government,’ sponsored by the Minority Leader, Hon. Ndudi
Elumelu.

In his lead debate, Hon. Elumelu who frowned at the abysmal release of
fund for the implementation of various projects as approved by the
National Assembly, called for the House intervention, noting that such
development is inimical to good governance.

While noting that the MDAs are the channels responsible for the
delivery of government policies, the Minority Leader, maintained that
Section 80 to 84 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) confers powers
of appropriation on Parliament as well as its oversight
responsibilities over the national purse.

According to him, Section 80(4) of the Constitution specifically
states that no money shall be withdrawn from the Consolidation Revenue
Fund or any other public fund of the Federation except in the manner
prescribed by the National Assembly.

“The House is further aware that complying with the constitutional
requirements on spending of public funds would ensure effective and
efficient management of public resources and put the country’s wealth
and resources to work for the common good of all Nigerians.

“The House is concerned that though, between 40 to 60 percent of funds
have been released for purposes of implementing the 2021 Appropriation
Act, yet most of the MDAs are yet to dispense these funds for the
purposes meant for.

“The House is further concerned that some of the MDAs are alleged to
have engaged in financial misappropriation by diverting such funds for
other unrelated purposes thereby frustrating government macro-economic
framework, while others are in outright denial of not receiving such
releases.

“The House is worried that these alleged practices outrightly violates
the letters and dictates of sections 80-84 of the 1999 Constitution
(as amended) and frustrates the implementation of government policies.

“The House is further worried that if these alleged corrupt practices
are not put to check, the perceived fight against corruption by Mr.
President would be discredited in the eyes of Nigerians and that of
the international community,” he warned.

To this end, the House mandated all the Standing Committees to
thoroughly investigate agencies they supervise and identify lapses if
any.

The Speaker, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila also mandated the joint Committees
on Finance and Appropriation to liaise with the Ministry of Finance
for the purposes of ascertaining releases made to Ministries,
Departments and Agencies in compliance with the 2021 Appropriation
Act.

He also mandated all the standing committees should conclude the
exercise within 2 weeks and report back to the House for further
legislative actions.

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