Igbo social-cultural group Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has urged the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission to investigate contract payments and expenditures amounting to N4.64 billion under Babatunde Fashola’s tenure as Minster of Works and Housing.
This is against the background of revelations by the Office of the Auditor-General of the Federation highlighting discrepancies in the financial dealings handled by Mr. Fashola between 2020-2021.
Ohaneze said Thursday in a statement signed by Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, who is Secretary-General of the Igbo apex group, that Mr. Fashola needs to clarify the issues raised.
“It is incumbent upon him (Fashola) 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 unauthorized payments and expenditures of #4.64 billion that occurred during Mr. Fashola’s tenure as Minister.
“In our quest for justice and accountability, Ohanaeze Ndigbo has undertaken a thorough forensic investigation into the allegations of misappropriation labeled against Mr. Fashola.
“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.”
