ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- The Senate has issued a seven-day ultimatum to the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, demanding detailed records of the disbursement of over N100 billion allocated for the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas (PCNG) projects.
In response to fresh plans by the PCNG to release an additional N130 billion to undisclosed companies, the Senate raised concerns about potential breaches of the Public Procurement Act 2017 and extrabudgetary expenditure.
Chairman of the Senate Committee on Gas Resources, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, urged the finance minister to provide comprehensive documentation regarding the award and disbursement of funds, as well as a list of companies involved in the project.
The committee’s request follows a petition by the Good Governance and Transparency Front, alleging irregularities in the disbursement of funds and the lack of progress in the PCNG initiatives.
The committee said in the letter made available to journalists yesterday: ”I am writing to request for comprehensive brief regarding the utilization of the sum of N100 billion allocated by the federal government for the development of gas infrastructure aimed at providing Compressed Natural Gas, CNG, to Nigerians as an alternative to fossil fuels.
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Senator Jarigbe emphasized the importance of transparency and adherence to due process in government initiatives, stressing the need for accountability and public trust.
The finance minister has been given a deadline of seven days to submit the requested information, which will aid the Senate’s oversight responsibilities and ensure the effectiveness of government efforts in promoting alternative energy sources.
Senator Jarigbe, who warned the PCNG of the grave consequences of going ahead with such disbursement without approval by the Senate, said: “The committee is seeking detailed information on the process followed in the award and disbursement of funds to the companies benefiting from the allocation.
”I would appreciate insight into the compliance of these processes with the provisions of the Public Procurement Act 2007.
”Specifically, the committee is interested in understanding the steps taken in the opening of bids, the qualification criteria applied, and the subsequent award of contracts to the selected companies.
”Transparency and adherence to due process are crucial aspects in ensuring public trust and accountability in such initiatives.
“Kindly provide documentation and details regarding the companies that received funding, outlining the specific projects or initiatives they are undertaking to promote the use of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) in the country.
“I believe this information will be invaluable for our committee’s oversight responsibilities and contribute to ensuring the success and effectiveness of government ‘s efforts in promoting alternative energy sources.
“I appreciate your attention on this matter and look forward to receiving the requested information in seven days from the date of receipt.
“The requested information should please be submitted in soft copy and 30 sets of hard copy to the clerk of the committee.”