•House of Representatives
The House of Representatives has commenced an investigation into all security intervention funds released by the federal government from 2020 till date, with a vow to promote transparency, accountability, and prudent use of resources meant for national security.
Chairman of the Ad Hoc Committee on the Expenditure of All Intervention Funds in the Security Sector, Hon. Zakaria Nyampa, announced this during the formal inauguration of the committee on Thursday at the National Assembly, Abuja.
Nyampa explained that the inquiry became necessary due to the disparity between the enormous budgetary allocations to the security sector and the persistent insecurity challenges across the country, reports Sunday Independent.
“This exercise is not intended to witch-hunt anyone,” he clarified.
“Our mandate is to ensure that every naira appropriated and released for security is used for its intended purpose, to protect the lives and property of Nigerians.”
He stated that the probe would cover all special intervention funds, allocations, and procurement processes across all beneficiary agencies, adding that the committee would also evaluate the effectiveness of the expenditures on improving security nationwide.
“We are resolute in tracing how these funds were utilised, with diligence, impartiality, and a deep sense of national duty,” Nyampa said.
To ensure openness and credibility, the committee pledged to work closely with key government and oversight institutions, including the Ministry of Finance, Budget Office, Office of the National Security Adviser, the armed forces, police authorities, and anti-graft agencies such as the EFCC and ICPC. Civil society organisations like BudgIT, CISLAC, and SERAP will also be engaged. “Transparency remains the foundation of good governance,” he emphasised.
Nyampa warned that mismanagement of security funds carries dire consequences for national stability and human lives.
“When resources meant to secure the nation are diverted, the loss is counted not just in money, but in the lives of innocent Nigerians. We must get this right,” he stated, assuring that the committee’s findings would contribute to reforms in security spending and rebuild citizens’ trust in governance.
In his remarks, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen reiterated the House’s dedication to accountability, probity, and proper utilisation of security intervention funds.
Represented by the Deputy Chief Whip, Hon. Ibrahim Isiaka, Abbas said the establishment of the committee underscores the House’s steadfast commitment to transparency in national security management.
He charged members of the committee to uphold the principles of fairness, efficiency, and integrity that guide the work of the legislature, while commending the Chairman for accepting the responsibility to lead the crucial assignment.
