The House of Representatives Committee on Works has formally requested detailed records of contracts awarded and funds disbursed to the federal Ministry of Works from key government agencies. The committee, led by Chairman Akinola Alabi, directed the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), and the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) to provide comprehensive financial and contractual documentation related to the ministry.
In a letter titled “Request for Information,” Mr. Alabi asked these agencies to submit documents including bank statements tied to the ministry, all payments made and received, contract awards, contractor details, and project timelines. Additionally, the committee requested records of bid advertisements, fees paid, technical and financial bid evaluations, tax clearance certificates, and other procurement-related documentation.
The agencies are required to submit these documents by October 7, 2024. The directive aligns with the constitutional powers of the National Assembly under Sections 88 and 89 of the 1999 Constitution, which empower it to conduct inquiries into the conduct of ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) as part of its oversight responsibilities.
According to Mr. Alabi, this review is essential for ensuring transparency and accountability in the federal Ministry of Works, and the committee is prepared to thoroughly examine the activities and financial records of relevant MDAs to fulfill its mandate.