Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the leading socio-cultural organization representing the Igbo people, has demanded a comprehensive investigation into the alleged mismanagement of N4.6 billion by former Minister of Works and Housing, Barrister Babatunde Fashola, during the 2020-2021 fiscal years.
In a statement released by the group’s factional Secretary General, Okechukwu Isiguzoro, Ohanaeze Ndigbo expressed concern over the serious allegations and emphasized the need for transparency and accountability in governance. The group noted that the suspected unauthorized payments and financial discrepancies outlined in recent reports from the Office of the Auditor-General of the Federation should not be overlooked.
“These allegations must not be allowed to be swept under the rug. The integrity of public office depends on transparent governance, and the people of Nigeria, especially Ndigbo, deserve to know the truth about the mismanagement of public funds,” Isiguzoro stated.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo made it clear that the current Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, who was serving as the Governor of Ebonyi State from 2015 to 2023, bears no responsibility for the alleged financial misdeeds that occurred during Fashola’s tenure as Minister of Works and Housing.
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The organization called for a full-scale investigation into the unauthorized payments and expenditures, amounting to N4.64 billion, that reportedly took place under Fashola’s leadership. Ohanaeze Ndigbo also called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to take immediate action and thoroughly examine the allegations.
“We are committed to ensuring that the EFCC and ICPC fulfill their constitutional responsibilities in investigating these serious allegations. If necessary, we will pursue all legal avenues to compel these agencies to act decisively,” Isiguzoro added.
The apex Igbo body also clarified that its investigation into the matter had been extensive and conclusive, asserting that there is no connection between Senator Umahi’s performance as the current Minister of Works and the alleged financial improprieties under Fashola’s administration.
