The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, has instructed the panel members investigating the N30 trillion “Ways and Means” loans obtained from the Central Bank of Nigeria under Godwin Emefiele’s leadership by the Federal Government to thoroughly investigate and uncover all details about the loans.
The panel was also directed to investigate the over N1 trillion Anchor Borrower Programme of the CBN from the previous administration.
During the inauguration of the 17-member Ad-hoc Committee in Abuja on Monday, Akpabio urged the committee to complete the investigation within six weeks.
He also advised the lawmakers to focus on the task at hand, avoid personal and partisan interests, and carry out their responsibilities with fairness and impartiality.
Akpabio emphasized the importance of handling the investigation with sensitivity. He advised the team to regularly communicate with stakeholders and consultants to gain valuable insights. It is crucial to maintain open communication with both the executive and the public.
He also instructed the panel not to disclose any part of the report to the public until the investigation is complete.
Akpabio said, “Today, we gather here with a common purpose: to inaugurate a crucial Ad-Hoc Committee. This committee, which was constituted following the report of the Joint Committees on Banking, Insurance and other Financial Institutions; Finance; National Planning; Agriculture; and Appropriations after interacting with the Federal Government’s Economic Management Team, holds great significance as it is charged with the investigation of the ways and means, including the Anchor Borrowers’ Programme.
“The constitution of this committee is a testament to the Senate’s unwavering commitment to transparency, accountability, and good governance. it reflects our dedication to addressing the concerns of the Nigerian people and upholding the principles of democracy.
“To the members of this esteemed committee, I implore you to approach your responsibilities with the utmost sense of patriotism, professionalism and integrity. Your investigation demands impartiality and fairness, always keeping the public interest and the welfare of our 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.”
In a further instruction, the senate president said, “The success of this Ad-Hoc committee hinges on collaboration, cooperation, and a steadfast commitment to the common good. Let us set aside personal and partisan interests, focusing solely on the task at hand. By working harmoniously, we can ensure that the Ways and Means in Nigeria are managed prudently, efficiently, and in accordance with the law.
“Moreover, confidentiality is paramount to your work. The information and data we gather during our investigations are sensitive and must be handled with the utmost care and discretion. Adhering to strict protocols will ensure the security and integrity of the information you uncover.”
The Panel Will Not Fail Nigerians
Meanwhile, Jibrin Isah, the Chairman of the ad-hoc committee, assured that the panel would not disappoint Nigerians regarding this matter.
He said, “The Ways and Means and the Anchor borrowers programme have occupied the public space in the last few months.
“There have been various distortions; the ways and means have aroused various forms of discussions amongst individuals and groups looking for opinions and interpretations.”
“I want to assure you that we are going to carry out this assignment expeditiously without any form of compromise.
“I want to plead with concerned parties to please make documents available when we request for them in order to make our work easier for us. We are going to do the very best that Nigerians would be very proud of.”
