Reps To Probe COVID-19 Funds Disbursement

By Oduyemi Odumade

The House of Representatives has mandated the Public Accounts Committee to investigate the expenditure of funds appropriated or disbursed as COVID-19 intervention to Ministries, Departments and Agencies of the, Federal Government from 2020 to 2022.

This was sequel to the adoption of a motion by a member from Adamawa State, Mr Nyampa Zakari, on the need to investigate the alleged mismanagement of the funds, at plenary.

The Lawmaker stated that the Federal Government initiated several measures, including budgetary provisions as well as funding from International donor agencies to combat the COVID-19 pandemic.

He said the sum of N83.9 Billion was appropriated for the COVID-19 response in the 2020 Appropriation Act as well as another sum of over N100 Billion Naira as intervention funds through supplementary budget and international donor agencies.

“Note that the COVID–19 disrupted economic activities, leading to global measures such as lockdowns, travel restrictions, business closures, and government shutdowns to control the virus’s spread.

“Cognizant that the disruption of economic activities necessitated the introduction of various programs, policies, and interventions to alleviate and boost the economies of families, small businesses, and public corporations.

According to him, the Auditor-General’s report and other sources revealed that significant funds for COVID-19 palliatives and international donations were diverted and unaccounted for by various Ministries, Departments and Agencies of Government.

Zakari expressed concern that the lack of proper accountability of funds allocated for COVID-19 intervention by the Federal Government and global donor agencies could potentially lead to negative economic ratings and loss of opportunities for Nigeria.

The committee is to report back within 4 weeks for further legislative action.

Edited By Grace Namiji