An audit of Katsina State’s 2023 fiscal report has revealed allegations of financial misconduct involving a former finance director. The document implicates Aliyu Abubakar, who served as the Director of Finance at the Katsina State Independent Electoral Commission, in unauthorized cash withdrawals and transfers. According to the report, Abubakar allegedly withdrew N511.8 million in cash without providing value to the commission and transferred an additional N34.4 million, the destination of which remains unclear.
The matter is reportedly awaiting further action from the state’s Attorney General.
Related Developments at the University
In another instance of financial impropriety, the audit uncovered an outstanding balance of N203,046,397.60 against former university staff who were sponsored for further studies under bond agreements. The report emphasized the necessity of recovering the funds from 14 staff members and advised the university council to engage its legal department or the Attorney General to prevent future occurrences.
Stalled Infrastructure Project
The audit also highlighted irregularities in a contract awarded to Kaibo International Nigeria Limited. On April 27, 2016, the company received a contract worth N1,996,861,690.85, with a stipulated completion period of 18 months. Despite an advance payment of N796,744,676.30, guaranteed by Diamond/Access Bank PLC, the company abandoned the project and failed to make significant progress.
Efforts to recover the remaining advance payment of N213,146,053.71 have been unsuccessful. The Auditor General instructed the ministry’s management to seek reimbursement from the bank. However, the report notes that Diamond Bank has yet to remit the funds due to an inability to secure approval from its headquarters.
Concerns About Accountability
These incidents have heightened public concerns about transparency and accountability in state expenditures across the country. They underscore the need for stringent oversight and mechanisms to ensure proper financial management at all levels.
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