The Senate Committee on Public Accounts has issued a one-week ultimatum to the Bank of Agriculture (BOA), the Nigerian Security Printing and Minting Company (NSPMC) and the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) to appear before it and respond to unresolved audit queries or risk sanctions.
The directive was issued during the committee’s sitting in Abuja after the three agencies failed to honour invitations to appear before lawmakers and provide explanations on issues raised in their audit reports.
Members of the committee expressed concern over the absence of the agencies, stressing that compliance with legislative oversight is essential to promoting transparency, accountability and prudent management of public resources.
The lawmakers warned that failure to appear within the stipulated one-week period could attract sanctions in accordance with the powers vested in the National Assembly.
According to the committee, the audit queries form part of efforts to ensure that government institutions operate in line with established financial regulations and uphold principles of accountability.
The Senate Committee on Public Accounts reiterated its commitment to strengthening oversight functions and ensuring that public agencies provide satisfactory explanations on issues identified in audit reports.
The committee also emphasized that regular engagement with government institutions is necessary to safeguard public funds and improve confidence in the nation’s financial management system.
The Bank of Agriculture, Nigerian Security Printing and Minting Company and Rural Electrification Agency are expected to appear before the committee within the specified period to address the outstanding observations and avoid further legislative action.
