Nigerian Senate warns agencies over non-compliance, threatens sanctions

Nigeria's Senate is taking a firm stance against government agencies that fail to appear before legislative committees, warning of constitutional sanctions. The Senate Committee on Finance expressed concern over the persistent refusal of some Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to honor invitations to account for their remittances of internally generated revenue (IGR) and operating surplus into the Consolidated Revenue Fund (CRF).

Senator Sani Musa, Chairman of the Committee, emphasized that heads of government institutions must personally attend these sessions to explain their organizations' financial activities and statutory obligations. He stated that the Senate would not tolerate illegal practices, such as agencies collecting and spending revenue without proper appropriation. The Senate President is expected to issue a statement regarding the non-compliance of some agencies.

In a specific case, the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority (OORBDA) has been given a two-week ultimatum to reconcile its financial records with relevant government bodies. The directive came after the Acting Managing Director, Mr. Ayo Oyano, appeared before the committee. Oyano reported that OORBDA generated N72.755 million in 2023 and remitted N18.188 million, or 25 percent of the revenue. However, the Fiscal Responsibility Commission (FRC) challenged this, stating that as a fully funded agency, OORBDA is legally required to remit 100 percent of its IGR.

The Senate's actions underscore its commitment to oversight and accountability in the management of public resources. The ongoing interactive sessions aim to ensure that all government revenue-generating bodies adhere strictly to remittance requirements, preventing financial impropriety and promoting transparency in public finance.

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Any agency collecting revenue and spending it without appropriation is acting illegally. Such practices will not be tolerated.