The House of Representatives has directed the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, to appoint a substantive Auditor-General for the territory to ensure accountability and transparency in financial management.

Legislative Mandate

The directive came following a motion presented during the plenary session on Monday, where lawmakers expressed concerns over the prolonged absence of an Auditor-General for the FCT. The motion, sponsored by Hon. Aliyu Madaki, highlighted the critical role of the Auditor-General in promoting fiscal discipline and ensuring the prudent use of public funds.

According to Madaki, the absence of a substantive Auditor-General has hampered the proper auditing of financial records in the FCT, leaving room for mismanagement and corruption.

“The position of the Auditor-General is essential in safeguarding public funds and promoting transparency. The continuous delay in appointing a qualified individual to this position undermines the fight against corruption,” Madaki stated.

House Resolution

Following a heated debate, the House unanimously adopted the motion, directing the FCT Minister to expedite the appointment process. The lawmakers emphasized that the appointment of an Auditor-General would enhance financial accountability and strengthen governance structures in the FCT.

Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas, reiterated the importance of the directive, urging the FCT administration to comply without delay.

“Good governance thrives on transparency and accountability. The FCT administration must prioritize the appointment of an Auditor-General to restore public confidence in the management of resources,” Abbas said.

Calls for Accountability

Civil society organizations and transparency advocates have welcomed the House resolution, describing it as a step towards ensuring fiscal responsibility. The Centre for Social Justice (CSJ) called on the FCT administration to adhere to the directive and ensure that the appointment is based on merit and competence.

Eze Onyekpere, the Lead Director of CSJ, noted that the absence of an Auditor-General has left a significant accountability gap in the FCT.

“Public funds must be managed with utmost integrity. The appointment of an Auditor-General will go a long way in promoting transparency and curbing corruption,” Onyekpere said.

Government’s Response

In response to the directive, the FCT administration acknowledged the concerns raised by the lawmakers and assured that the appointment process would be fast-tracked.

A spokesperson for the FCT Minister stated, “The administration is committed to promoting transparency and accountability. The directive from the House of Representatives will be given utmost priority.”

Way Forward

Analysts have urged the FCT administration to adhere strictly to merit-based criteria in the selection process to ensure the appointment of a qualified professional. They also called for a review of financial management practices to strengthen accountability mechanisms in the FCT.

As the pressure mounts, stakeholders are hopeful that the appointment of an Auditor-General will mark a new era of transparency and responsible governance in the nation’s capital.