$5 million probe: Senate to release public report on NIMASA

The Nigerian Senate said it will release the report and findings of the committee on the alleged payment of $5 million by the management of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) to a law firm for a service not rendered.

The Senate Public Account Committee had invited the management of NIMASA to explain why the $5 million was paid for services not rendered.

On Tuesday, August 9, the panel gave a 48-hour ultimatum to the NIMASA to show a document involving payment of $5 million in legal fees for service not rendered.

The committee also directed the agency to provide documentary evidence after unsuccessful attempts by its representative to justify the humongous payment.

The Senate spokesperson, Senator Ajibola Basiru disclosed this while speaking at a press week program by Nigeria Union of Journalists, Osun State Broadcasting Corporation (OSBC) chapel on Thursday.

Speaking on some of the corruption cases at the 9th National Assembly, Basiru noted that the assembly has exposed mind-boggling cases of corruption, wastage and unbudgeted spending by some revenue generating agencies of government.

“This distinguished gathering will agree with me that by wielding this power, the 9th National Assembly has exposed mind-boggling cases of corruption, wastage and unbudgeted spending by some revenue generating agencies of government.

“Quite commendable in this regard is the audacious efforts of the Senate Public Accounts Committee to cause or cause to be directed an investigation pursuant to Section 62, 68 and 89 of the Constitution.

“Two weeks ago, the Senate Public Accounts Committee commenced investigation into all alleged payment of 5 million USD by the management of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) to a law firm for a service not rendered and has directed the agency to provide documentary evidence after unsuccessful attempts by its representative to justify the humongous payment.

“It is noteworthy that this is an ongoing investigation and in my humble capacity as the Spokesperson of the Senate, I can assure you that the report and findings of the committee on this particular matter will be made available in no distant time to the press and the public at large,” he said.