Audit Report Exposes N78 Million Paid Into Personal Accounts, N47 Million Contracts Awarded Without Due Process in Abia
By Okafor Joseph Afam
November 23, 2024
In a shocking revelation, a review of the Abia State audit report has uncovered glaring violations in the management of public funds, highlighting a troubling lack of accountability within the state’s financial system. Over N78 million in public funds was illicitly paid into private accounts, while contracts worth N47 million were awarded without adhering to due process.
According to the audit report, Philemon Asonye Ogbonna, the Abia State Commissioner for Environment, received N41.6 million directly into his personal account. This amount was earmarked for the Abia Industrial and Innovative Park in Owaza, Ukwa West Local Government Area. However, this transaction violated the provisions of Financial Regulation 809, which mandates proper vouching, documentation, and procedural compliance for the disbursement of public funds.
Similarly, N37.8 million was allegedly funneled into the accounts of Alozie Kelechi C., a former permanent secretary, and Obinna Nwaokoma, a director of finance in the state. These payments further highlight systemic breaches of fiscal laws designed to ensure transparency and accountability in public spending.
The audit also revealed that contracts totaling N47 million, supposedly intended for the development of the Abia State Industrial and Innovative Park, were awarded without proper tendering processes. There was no advertisement for bids in local or national newspapers, as required by procurement laws. This omission raises concerns about favoritism and potential financial impropriety in the awarding of these contracts.
Another glaring irregularity noted in the report involved a payment of N200 million to Krest Kreative Concept for construction work at the permanent site of the College of Health Sciences and Technology, Umuobiakwa. The payment lacked supporting documentation, such as payment vouchers and a contract agreement detailing job specifications, completion timelines, and payment terms.
These revelations have sparked outrage among stakeholders and citizens who have long demanded greater accountability and prudence in the management of public resources in Abia State. Critics argue that such irregularities undermine public trust and stifle the state’s developmental efforts.
Calls are mounting for a thorough investigation and for those implicated in these financial violations to face appropriate legal and administrative actions. With growing demands for transparency, the onus is now on the Abia State government to restore public confidence by ensuring strict adherence to financial regulations and procurement laws.
This scandal serves as a reminder of the critical need for robust systems that prioritize accountability and protect public resources from abuse.
