House of Reps launches probe into utilization of government funds since 2015

The House of Representatives has established a Special Committee to investigate the utilization of Take-off Grants, Bailout Funds, and other interventions allocated to Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), Government Institutions, and Government-Owned Enterprises (GOEs) from 2015 to date.

The 14-member committee, chaired by Rep. Emeka Chinedu (Imo – PDP), will assess compliance with financial regulations and guidelines, scrutinizing the management and reporting of these funds.

The probe will also examine cases of misappropriation, diversion, or non-compliance in the use of public funds.

Beyond the investigation, the committee will recommend improvements to regulatory frameworks, sanctions, and monitoring mechanisms to enhance accountability and transparency in public financial management.

These resolutions was sequel to the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance moved by the Minority Leader, Rep. Kingsley Chinda on Thursday at plenary.

Moving the motion, Rep. Chinda noted that the provisions of Section 88 (2) (b) of the Constitution of federal Republic of Nigeria that empowers the House to expose corruption, inefficiency or wastage in the management of public funds appropriated by National Assembly.

The Minority Leader emphasised that the prudent use of public funds is crucial for ensuring accountability, transparency, and public trust in Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), as well as Government-Owned Enterprises (GOEs).

He acknowledged that over the years, the government has provided Take-off Grants and Intervention Funds to both new and existing agencies to support their operations, alongside Bailout Funds aimed at facilitating specific services and clearing outstanding liabilities.

However, he expressed concern over recurring allegations of fund diversion and mismanagement, warning that the failure to use these funds as intended undermines critical public services and projects.

Rep. Chinda further noted that the financial losses resulting from such mismanagement pose a serious drain on public resources—funds that could otherwise be directed toward essential services and national development, in line with Section 14(2)(b) of the Constitution.

The motion reads in part:

“Also Concerned that the misuse of Take-off Grants, Bailout Funds, and other interventions has severely compromised national development goals, hindering progress towards critical social and economic objectives.

“Aware that the misappropriation of these funds has led to a demonstrable deterioration in the quality of public services delivery and compromise the security of the nation thereby undermining public trust in government effectiveness.

“Also, aware that the lack of stringent oversight and monitoring mechanisms may contribute to the inefficiency in the deployment of these resources, resulting in wasted funds that could otherwise be utilized to improve the good intended government policies and as well protect lives of citizens”.

Chinda therefore said there was the need for a thorough investigation by the National Assembly, as required by Sections 88 and 89 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), to examine the scope, usage, and accountability of these financial allocations. This he said will ensure proper oversight, prevent misuse of public funds, and promote national development.

The Committee is expected to report back within four weeks for further legislative action.