Probe Fraud within the Niger delta _ Anti-corruption group

A coalition of Anti-Corruption Civil Society Organizations recently raised concerns about the alleged diversion of N20 billion within the Ministry of Niger Delta Development. During a media briefing in Abuja, they expressed dissatisfaction with the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr. Belgore Shuaib, for failing to respond to their inquiries regarding these allegations under the Freedom of Information Act and the Whistle Blowing policy.

The coalition, which includes groups like the Center for Democracy and Human Rights (CEDEHUR) and the Network Against Corruption and Trafficking Initiative (NACAT), called for an investigation into several specific instances of alleged fund misappropriation. These include N30.2 million earmarked for a medical outreach, N21.2 million for a skills development seminar, and N15 billion intended for flood relief.

Convener Iteveh Nurudeen highlighted that the ministry, initially established to address development issues in the Niger Delta, is now perceived as a hub for corruption and mismanagement. He revealed that their investigation uncovered documents showing numerous projects that were supposedly executed but were only reported on paper, leading to the alleged misappropriation of funds.

Despite their requests for clarification from the ministry, the coalition reported receiving no response. They emphasized that many of the financial irregularities point to potential money laundering and misuse of public funds. They have indicated their intention to escalate the matter to various governmental and anti-corruption bodies if they do not receive a satisfactory response.

The coalition urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take action against the financial misconduct within the ministry and to reinforce accountability in governance.