The Nigerian Senate warns MDAs over financial misconduct, pledging sanctions for non-compliance with Auditor General’s report findings.

[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he Nigerian Senate has pledged to impose parliamentary sanctions on heads of Federal Government agencies implicated in financial infractions highlighted in the Auditor General for the Federation’s (AuGF) report.

The commitment was made on Monday during a one-day workshop in Abuja by Senator Garba Madoki, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Legislative Compliance.

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Senator Madoki expressed concern over the increasing trend of ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) disregarding Senate summons and resolutions, warning that the red chamber would no longer tolerate such actions.

“We are going to be very strict on the Auditor General’s report,” he said. “In the very short while, measures will be taken against everyone refusing to comply with Senate resolutions on the matter. Actions will be taken against those infringing on these reports.”

The Auditor General’s latest annual report, currently under review by both chambers of the National Assembly, revealed widespread financial misconduct.

A staggering ₦105.66 billion was expended by MDAs in violation of existing rules and regulations, with ₦18.36 billion in contracts awarded without adhering to the Public Procurement Act.

The AuGF also highlighted systemic weaknesses in the government’s financial management, despite repeated recommendations to the Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, and the Accountant General of the Federation.

“The persistent lack of transparency and accountability in managing public funds is detrimental, especially at a time of declining national revenues,” the report stated.

The Senate Committee on Public Accounts is already addressing the findings of the report. Senator Madoki assured the public that appropriate sanctions would be enforced against violators, whether infractions occurred inadvertently or willfully.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio, represented by Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau, reaffirmed the 10th National Assembly’s determination to ensure strict compliance with legislative resolutions.

“Legislative compliance is critical to governance,” Akpabio said. “Without it, public trust in government is eroded, and the nation’s development agenda is hindered.

Our responsibility goes beyond enacting laws—it includes ensuring their effective implementation and holding violators accountable.”

Acting Clerk to the National Assembly, Mr. Kamoru Ogunlana, emphasised the significance of legislative compliance in fostering good governance.

“It ensures that our laws are not just enacted but implemented and respected across society,” he said. “Robust legislative processes and compliance mechanisms build trust and confidence in government institutions, enabling sustainable development and social justice.”

Source: Read more at vanguardngr.com