The Senate has granted a six-week timeframe for a panel to investigate the N30tn “Ways and Means” loans acquired from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) during the tenure of former President Muhammadu Buhari. Senate President Godswill Akpabio urged the 17-member Ad-hoc Committee to leave no stone unturned in unraveling the details of the facility. Additionally, the committee is tasked with probing the over N1tn Anchor Borrower Programme of the CBN from the immediate past administration.
Inaugurating the committee in Abuja on Monday, Akpabio emphasized the importance of thoroughness, patriotism, professionalism, and integrity in their investigation. He urged members to focus on the public interest and uphold democratic principles while engaging with stakeholders and maintaining open communication with the executive and the public. Stressing the sensitivity of the investigation, Akpabio directed the panel not to leak any aspect of the report until the task is concluded.
Addressing the committee, Akpabio stated, “We must leave no stone unturned in our pursuit of the truth. Therefore, conduct thorough inquiries and dig out information that will assist the Senate in making laws for the betterment of our country.”
Senate President Akpabio emphasized collaboration, cooperation, and a commitment to the common good for the success of the Ad-Hoc committee. He stressed the need for confidentiality in handling sensitive information gathered during the investigation.
Chairman of the ad-hoc committee, Senator Jibrin Isah, assured Nigerians that the panel would handle the issue expeditiously without compromise. He called for the cooperation of concerned parties in providing necessary documents for the investigation, aiming to produce results that Nigerians can be proud of. The committee includes Senators Asuquo Ekpenyong, Mohammed Tahir Monguno, Victor Umeh, Olamilekan Adeola, Sani Musa, Aliyu Wadada, Abdul Ningi, and Ipalibo Banigo Harry.
