Quick Breakdown: Key Points
- CPA and other groups are demanding a probe into alleged N7.7 billion misappropriation at NCDMB.
- They claim the Executive Secretary authorized spending beyond approved limits.
- The group has issued a seven-day ultimatum for action.
- NCDMB defends its spending, saying everything followed due process.
CPA Alleges Major Financial Misconduct
The Centre for Public Accountability (CPA), along with other civic organizations, is not mincing words. They want a full-blown investigation into what they call financial misconduct at the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB). According to the CPA, a whopping N7.7 billion ($4.7 million, according to their figures) was allegedly misappropriated without proper approvals, flying in the face of established procurement regulations.
Details of the Allegations
Dr. Ebenezer Oladapo, the Executive Director of the CPA, didn’t hold back in a statement released on Saturday. He directly accused the Executive Secretary of the NCDMB, Mr. Felix Ogbe, of greenlighting the expenditure without following the necessary protocols. The CPA claims this amount exceeded the approval limits set by the Ministerial Tenders Board (MTB). Adding fuel to the fire, they raised concerns about these payments being processed through the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).
The CPA further alleges that these transactions lacked verifiable proof that the consultant who received the funds actually recovered any amount to justify the payment. This raises serious questions about the legitimacy of these expenditures.
Warning Against Undermining Anti-Corruption Efforts
The CPA is clearly concerned that these alleged practices are a direct threat to President Bola Tinubu’s anti-corruption agenda and overall efforts to promote accountability within public institutions. They are urging President Tinubu to take immediate action and launch a comprehensive, independent investigation into the NCDMB’s financial activities under its current leadership. They also plan to petition the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), and other relevant agencies to ensure a thorough probe takes place.
Ultimatum Issued: Seven Days to Act
The CPA has upped the ante by issuing a seven-day ultimatum to the government. If their demands aren’t met, they warn that they will mobilize legal and civic measures to hold those responsible accountable. This is a clear indication of their seriousness and determination to see this matter investigated.
“We will not stand by while public officials entrusted with the nation’s resources engage in reckless financial misconduct without consequences,” the CPA stated emphatically.
NCDMB Defends Its Spending
It’s worth noting that the NCDMB has previously defended its spending after reports of alleged financial misappropriation surfaced in various media outlets. They confirmed organizing a strategic workshop costing N580 million, arguing that it was a crucial part of their 10-year Strategic Roadmap aimed at boosting local content in the oil and gas sector. In response to claims that N7.7 billion was diverted into questionable contracts, the Board maintained that all expenditures followed due process and were subject to strict government oversight.
What’s Next?
The coming days will be crucial as the government faces increasing pressure to launch an investigation. Will the CPA’s ultimatum be met? Will the EFCC and ICPC get involved? The answers to these questions will determine the next chapter in this developing story.
Fun Fact: The NCDMB was established in 2010 with the aim of increasing indigenous participation in the Nigerian oil and gas industry. It’s a key agency in promoting local content and building capacity within the sector.