KEY POINTS
- Reps investigate over $2 billion in renewable energy spending.
- Ministers expected to provide direct answers at hearing.
- Committee emphasizes accountability in Nigeria’s energy sector.
Nigeria’s House of Representatives Committee on Renewable Energy has summoned several top government officials, including Agriculture Minister Abubakar Kyari, Science and Technology Minister Uche Nnaji, and Budget and Economic Planning Minister Atiku Bagudu, to account for over $2 billion in renewable energy investments and grants.
Led by Afam Ogene, the committee aims to review the allocation and use of funds intended to bolster Nigeria’s renewable energy sector from 2015 to the present, amid ongoing electricity supply challenges.
During the hearing, ministers were asked to appear personally on Wednesday, Nov. 6, after sending representatives on Tuesday. Committee Chair Ogene emphasized the importance of ministerial accountability, citing the committee’s authority to investigate government spending.
Lawmakers demand Ministers’ personal appearances
Expressing frustration at the absence of high-ranking officials, Ogene reminded representatives that only ministers could address all relevant issues. When Budget and Economic Planning’s representative, Felix Okonkwo, admitted he lacked full authority to answer for the minister, Ogene demanded the ministers’ presence to ensure a thorough inquiry. Similar incidents occurred with representatives from other ministries, leading Ogene to reiterate that only the ministers themselves could respond adequately to the committee’s concerns.
Other officials, including the Petroleum Resources (Gas) Minister Ekperikpe Ekpo, the Accountant General’s Office, and Union Bank of Nigeria, are also expected to testify on fund utilization.
