The Senate has vowed to impose parliamentary sanctions on heads of Federal Government agencies indicted in the Auditor-General’s report for financial mismanagement.
The warning was issued on Monday by Senator Garba Madoki, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Legislative Compliance, during a workshop in Abuja.
Madoki criticised the increasing disregard for Senate summons by leaders of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), warning that such behavior would no longer be tolerated.
“We are going to be very strict on the report of the Auditor-General for the Federation. Actions will be taken against anyone who refuses to comply with Senate resolutions,” he stated.
The Auditor-General’s latest annual report revealed that MDAs had misused a total of N105.66 billion, breaching financial regulations. Of this, N18.36 billion was spent on contracts awarded without adhering to the Public Procurement Act.
The report further highlighted systemic weaknesses in financial management, despite previous recommendations to the Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, and the Accountant General of the Federation.
The Auditor-General emphasized the critical need for transparency and accountability, especially in light of Nigeria’s dwindling revenues and their impact on the national budget.
Madoki confirmed that the Senate Committee on Public Accounts is currently reviewing the Auditor-General’s findings. He pledged that the Senate would act decisively against violations.
“We will take this job seriously, and where sanctions are required, we will not hesitate to enforce them against any MDA that violates the law, either inadvertently or willfully,” he warned.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio, in remarks delivered by his deputy, Jibrin Barau, stressed the importance of legislative compliance for effective governance.
“Legislative compliance is critical to the success of governance. Without it, the effectiveness of the National Assembly is undermined, public trust in government is eroded, and the development agenda is stalled,” Akpabio said.
He reiterated that the 10th National Assembly would hold MDA heads accountable for disregarding its resolutions, adding, “This is not just about oversight; it is about ensuring that the aspirations of Nigerians, as articulated through their representatives, are translated into meaningful action and positive outcomes.”
Acting Clerk to the National Assembly, Kamoru Ogunlana, emphasized that legislative compliance is essential for good governance.
“Legislative compliance ensures that our laws are not just enacted but effectively implemented and respected. It is the backbone of good governance,” Ogunlana remarked.
He underscored the role of compliance in enhancing public trust and paving the way for sustainable development and social justice.
The Senate’s renewed determination to enforce compliance with financial regulations signals a push for greater accountability in the management of public funds.
