The Nigerian Senate found itself embroiled in a heated debate over the utilization of the N29 trillion Ways and Means funds by the immediate past administration.
Trouble erupted during the discussion when Senator Ali Ndume, representing Borno South Senatorial District, raised concerns about the legality of the Senate’s involvement in approving funds already expended.
The ‘Ways and Means’ fund constitutes an overdraft drawn from the Central Bank of Nigeria to address emergency and contingency needs of the Federal Government. Typically, after the funds have been utilized, they are forwarded to the National Assembly for approval and ratification.
However, disagreements arose during the submission of a report to the Committee of the Whole led by Senator Abdullahi Yahaya Abubakar. Senator Ndume argued that the Senate lacked the authority to approve funds already spent, citing relevant sections of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Senator Mohammed Danjuma Goje countered Ndume’s assertion, asserting that the upper legislative chamber possessed the power to approve the funds. Ndume reiterated that while he did not participate in the plenary that approved the Ways and Means in advance, it was imperative for the Executive to provide detailed explanations of how the funds were utilized after expenditure.
He emphasized the need for transparency, stating, “This is illegal,” in reference to the lack of detailed information in the report presented.
Amid the escalating dispute, Senate President Godswill Akpabio emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability, insisting on the provision of comprehensive details regarding the Ways and Means funds. He underscored the Senate’s commitment to upholding legality and ensuring that the 10th Senate would not serve as a rubber stamp for any entity.
Akpabio’s call for transparency reflects the Senate’s determination to scrutinize government spending and uphold its oversight responsibilities.
