In response to mounting concerns regarding the financial activities and contractual obligations of the previous administration led by former Governor Nasir El-Rufai, the Kaduna State House of Assembly has taken decisive action. An adhoc committee has been established to delve into the financial dealings and contractual responsibilities of the administration that governed from May 29, 2015, to May 29, 2023.
The committee's inaugural session, conducted behind closed doors at the House of Assembly complex, marked the beginning of a meticulous fact-finding endeavor. During this session, the committee engaged in extensive discussions with a range of key past and present government officials, particularly those who served under the tenure of Governor El-Rufai.
Among the individuals summoned for interrogation are notable figures such as the former Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce, Manzo Maigari; the former Commissioner of Budget and Planning, Thomas Gyang; the Commissioner and Administrator of Zaria Metropolitan Authority, Balaraba Aliyu; as well as the present Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Muktar Ahmed, among others.
Henry Danjuma, the Chairman of the committee and Deputy Speaker of the Assembly, conveyed to reporters that the session provided valuable insights into various aspects of governmental operations. He emphasized that the principal actors involved offered significant information shedding light on critical areas necessitating scrutiny and potential enhancement.
Furthermore, Danjuma reassured the citizens of Kaduna State of the committee's unwavering commitment to transparency throughout the investigative process. This commitment underscores the assembly's dedication to upholding accountability and ensuring that the interests of the populace are safeguarded.
The establishment of the adhoc committee represents a proactive step by the Kaduna State House of Assembly to address concerns surrounding the financial management and execution of projects during the previous administration. By conducting a comprehensive fact-finding mission, the committee aims to ascertain the status of executed contracts, loans, grants, and projects implemented between 2015 and 2023.
Moreover, beyond the immediate objectives of the probe, there exists a broader imperative to strengthen governance mechanisms and foster greater accountability within the state's administrative framework. The scrutiny of past financial transactions and contractual obligations serves not only to rectify any potential discrepancies but also to instill public confidence in the integrity of governmental processes.
Additionally, the probe presents an opportunity to identify areas for improvement in governance practices and to implement necessary reforms that enhance transparency and efficiency. By engaging with key stakeholders and scrutinizing past actions, the assembly seeks to lay the groundwork for more robust governance structures that prioritize the interests of the people.
Furthermore, the transparency demonstrated by the assembly in initiating this probe underscores its commitment to democratic principles and responsible governance. By keeping the public informed about its proceedings and ensuring accountability at every stage, the assembly sets a precedent for open and accountable governance.
As the investigation progresses, it is imperative that the committee conducts its proceedings with diligence and impartiality, adhering strictly to the principles of justice and fairness. Only through a thorough and transparent process can the assembly fulfill its mandate of serving as a guardian of the public interest and promoting good governance in Kaduna State.