Feb 6 • 15:56 UTC 🌍 Africa AllAfrica

Nigeria: Reps Panel Summons 6 FCT Area Councils Over N100bn Infractions

The House of Representatives has summoned the chairmen and finance directors of six FCT Area Councils due to alleged financial infractions exceeding N100 billion.

The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of Nigeria's House of Representatives has called for the chairmen and finance directors of all six Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Councils to appear before it regarding serious allegations of financial misconduct totalling over N100 billion. This action arose from an audit report presented by the Auditor-General, which exposed numerous breaches in financial regulations across these councils, thereby raising concerns about fiscal accountability within local governments.

The audit for the financial year ending December 31, 2021, highlighted critical issues such as unremitted taxes, missed VAT deductions, and failures to properly maintain financial records like Fixed Asset Registers. The report detailed that the councils collectively faced outstanding financial liabilities of N7.65 billion, which included unpaid pension deductions and taxes owed to the government. These findings reflect deep-rooted problems in governance and fiscal management at the local level, prompting a necessary inquiry into standard practices across these councils.

The implications of these infractions are significant as they not only undermine public trust in local government financial management but could also lead to calls for reforms in how councils manage funds and comply with regulations. The situation has attracted the attention of policymakers and citizens alike, with an expectation that the summoned officials will provide clarity and accountability in addressing the financial discrepancies reported by the Auditor-General, reflecting the need for enhanced oversight in public finance management within Nigeria's capital territory.

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