Janet Samuel, Abuja
The Senate has appointed the Senator representing kogi East Senatorial District, Jibrin Isa-Echocho as the Chairman of the 17 man Ad-Hoc committee inaugurated today to investigate the ways and means, including the Anchor Borrowers’ Programme under the leadership of former President, Muhammad Buhari.
Following the report of the Joint Committees on Banking, Insurance and other Financial Institutions, after interacting with the Federal Government’s Economic Management Team, the senate constituted the 17 man adhoc committee during plenary last week.
Inaugurating the committee, at the National Assembly, the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio noted that the constitution of the committee is a testament to the Senate’s unwavering commitment to transparency, accountability, and good governance. Which reflects itst dedication to addressing the concerns of the Nigerians while upholding the principles of democracy.
Akpabio. Charged the members of the committee, to approach their responsibilities with the utmost sense of patriotism, professionalism and integrity, adding that their investigation demands impartiality and fairness, and to always keep the public interest and the welfare of the nation at the forefront.
“We must leave no stone unturned in our pursuit of the truth. Therefore, conduct thorough inquiries and dig out information that will assist the Senate in making laws for the betterment of our country.
“The success of this Ad-Hoc committee hinges on collaboration, cooperation, and a steadfast commitment to the common good.
He urged them to set aside personal and partisan interests, focusing solely on the task to ensure that the Ways and Means in Nigeria are managed prudently, efficiently, and in accordance with the law.
“In carrying out your mandate, it is imperative that you engage with relevant stakeholders, experts, and organizations. Their valuable insights and perspectives will strengthen the credibility and comprehensives of your findings and recommendations. I urge you to remain open to constructive inputs and feedback, harnessing the knowledge and expertise of others to achieve your collective goal.
Acxepring the responsibility, the Chairman of the Committee, Senator Isah-Echocho thanked the senate for considering him and his other members worthy for the assignment, assuring that they would do the job without “compromise” and deliver the result at the appropriate time.
He urged the beneficiaries of the programe to provide necessary iinformation when needed, adding that they should also be available when ever they are called upon to.make the job easier and achieve their aim.
The inauguration which was witnessed by the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Olayemi Cardoso, the Minister of Finance,Olawale Edu, the Minister of Budget and National Planning, Atiku Baguda, also had in attendance the, Auditor General, the DG of Debt Management Office and high ranking senators, including the Deputy Senate President, Jibrin Barau and Senate leader, Bamidele Opeyemi.
Theh 17-member committee include Senator Sahabi Ya’u Alhaji (Zamfara North), Adamu Aliero (Kebbi Central),Mukhail Adetokunbo Abiru (Lagos East), Asuquo Ekpenyong (Cross Rivers South), Tahir Monguno (Borno North) Victor Umeh (Anambra Central), Solomon Olamilekan Adeola (Ogun West) and Sani Musa (Niger East).
Others are Abdul Ningi (Bauchi Central), Aliyu Wadada (Nasarawa West), Ipalibo Harry (Rivers West), Jimoh Ibrahim (Ondo South), Ibrahim Mohammed Bomai (Yobe South), Joel Onowakpa (Delta South) Ede Dafinone (Delta Central) and Aminu Iya Abbas (Adamawa Central).
The Committe has six weeks to report the outcome of the investigation of the N30 trillion Ways and Means expenditures under the past administration to the Senate for necessary action.
