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Reps Set Up Special Committee to Investigate Use of Take-off Grants, Bailout Funds, Interventions
The Minority Leader emphasised that the prudent use of public funds is crucial for ensuring accountability, transparency, and public trust in Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), as well as Government-Owned Enterprises (GOEs).
He acknowledged that over the years, the government has provided Take-off Grants and Intervention Funds to both new and existing agencies to support their operations, alongside Bailout Funds aimed at facilitating specific services and clearing outstanding liabilities.
However, he expressed concern over recurring allegations of fund diversion and mismanagement, warning that the failure to use these funds as intended undermines critical public services and projects.
Rep. Chinda further noted that the financial losses resulting from such mismanagement pose a serious drain on public resources—funds that could otherwise be directed toward essential services and national development, in line with Section 14(2)(b) of the Constitution.
The House asopted the motio and resolves to set up a Special Committee to investigate the matter and report back to within four weeks for further legislative action.
…walks out of chamber
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has reacted to her suspension declaring that this injustice cannot be sustained.
In her words: “This injustice cannot be sustained,” as she walks out of chamber as Senate hands her six months suspension
The Senate had slammed a six month suspension on Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan consequent upon Ethics panel’s recommendation.
She is also directed to tender a written apology regarding her allegations against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
The recommendation was announced on Thursday during plenary by Senator Neda Imasuen (LP, Edo South), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct, and Public Petitions.
The Senate also dismissed Akpoti-Uduaghan’s claims that Akpabio had been silencing her in the chamber, labelling the allegations as baseless and frivolous.
Expectedly, the Senate finally suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan following recommendations by its Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct and Public Petitions
Senator Natasha was suspended for a period of six (6) on Thursday after the recommendations of the committee were put to a voice vote by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
She was also asked not to be seen near the National Assembly (NASS); that her office be locked up for the duration of her suspension, and that she hands over all Senate’s properties in possession to the Clerk of the NASS.
Presenting the recommendation, Chairman of the Committee, Senator Neda Imaseun said:
“That the Senate do suspend Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for six (6) for her total violation of the Senate standing rules 2023 as amended, for bringing the presiding officer and the Senate in general to public opprobrium.
“That for the Senate to consider lifting the suspension, or to reduce the tenor of suspension, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan shall submit a written apology to the Senate before the reconsideration by the Senate.
“That the Senate do suspend Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan with effect from 6th March 2025 from all legislative activities forthwith.
By Kayode Sanni-Arewa
The Senate is considering a six-month suspension for Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan following findings from its Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Code of Conduct.
According to the committee’s report, presented by its chairman, Senator Neda Imasuen, the Kogi Central lawmaker was found guilty of violating Senate rules, prompting the recommendation for disciplinary action.
If the suspension takes effect on March 6, 2025, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan will be barred from accessing the National Assembly complex, and her office will be sealed. Additionally, her salary and those of her legislative aides will be withheld. She will also be prohibited from representing Nigeria in any official capacity during the suspension.
The committee further suggested that she may submit a written apology, which could be reviewed to reconsider her suspension.
The Senate is expected to vote on the recommendations, a decision that could temporarily strip the senator of all legislative privileges.
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