The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, has urged the panel members investigating the N30tn “Ways and Means” loans from the Central Bank of Nigeria, led by Godwin Emefiele, to leave no stone unturned.
The panel, consisting of 17 members, is also tasked with probing the over N1tn Anchor Borrower Programme of the CBN during the previous administration.
During the inauguration in Abuja, Akpabio emphasized the importance of the committee’s six-week task. He urged lawmakers to focus on their responsibilities with balance, devotion, and impartiality, setting aside personal and partisan interests. Recognizing the sensitivity of the investigation, Akpabio advised constant engagement with stakeholders and consultants, maintaining open communication with the executive and the public.
He emphasized the confidentiality of the investigation, instructing the panel not to leak any aspect of the report until the conclusion of the task. Akpabio stressed the committee’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and good governance, highlighting the importance of addressing the concerns of the Nigerian people and upholding democratic principles.
The Chairman of the ad-hoc committee, Jibrin Isah, assured Nigerians that the panel would not fail in its investigation. Isah acknowledged the public discussions and distortions surrounding the Ways and Means and Anchor Borrower Programme, pledging an expedited and uncompromised inquiry. He called on concerned parties to provide necessary documents to facilitate the committee’s work.
The committee, led by Senator Jibrin Isah, includes members such as Senators Asuquo Ekpenyong, Mohammed Tahir Monguno, Victor Umeh, Olamilekan Adeola, Sani Musa, Aliyu Wadada, Abdul Ningi, and Ipalibo Banigo Harry. Their collaboration and commitment aim to ensure prudent and efficient management of Ways and Means in Nigeria in accordance with the law.