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Alleged misappropriation of funds : Group calls on EFCC, ICPC to place Gov Lawal on watchlist
The Zamfara Concerned Citizens group has called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) to place Governor Dauda Lawal on a watchlist due to substantial revenue received by Zamfara State, local governments,and other sources totaling ₦341,593,410,590 from May 2023 to October 2024.
The breakdown of the revenue is as follows:FAAC State Government: ₦139,681,912,237.13,FAAC Local Government ₦88,741,377,601.75,IGR: ₦15,000,000,000.00,NG-CARES 1: ₦2,700,000,000.00,NG-CARES 2: ₦49,182,347,834.58,Infrastructure Support: ₦20,000,000,000.00,Bond Balance:₦14,334,813,918.00,Accresal: ₦2,652,950,000.00,UBE Grants: ₦6,300,000,000.00anf Grand Total: ₦341,593,410,590.
In a statement signed by spokesperson Abubakar Ibrahim Gusau, the group alleges that a major airport project awarded during Dr. Bello Matawalle’s administration was initially budgeted at ₦11 billion, with the contractor spending almost ₦9 billion to construct the airport.
However, Dauda re-awarded the contract at ₦62.9 billion and collected 20% of this amount from the contractor.
The group further claims that road construction contracts initiated under the previous administration were significantly inflated.
A project initially estimated to cost between ₦75 and ₦80 million per kilometer was instead awarded at ₦1.2 billion per kilometer, with only 11 kilometers constructed in Gusau, Lawal’s local government area.
Additionally, a road from Gusau to Dan Sadau, originally proposed at ₦5.8 billion, but because of matawalle financial disciplined he said is too cost, but Now Dauda awarded at cost of ₦82.3 billion. Dauda allegedly collected 20% of this new contract, totaling approximately ₦16,2 billion.
The group also alleges a plot involving bandits, claiming they intend to kidnap some workers to create the impression that bandits are preventing road construction, thereby allowing them to misappropriate the allocated funds.
They accuse the governor of planning to award contracts in areas known for bandit activities.
After collecting a 20% share, he would then claim that bandits have prevented the completion of the project, thus justifying the unspent funds.
The group calls on the EFCC, ICPC, rural communities, and Zamfara citizens to closely monitor Dauda’s actions.
They question the whereabouts of the remaining funds, suggesting that significant portions of the allocated money may have been diverted to the governor’s personal accounts, enabling him to maintain a lavish lifestyle while residents face hunger and insecurity.
The group also criticizes the governor’s handling of security funds, noting that ₦12 billion was allocated for security from January to October 2024, yet no substantial resources have been provided to support security agencies.
They argue that, without federal assistance, the deteriorating security situation in Zamfara could have led to mass emigration.
Gusau emphasized the need for transparency regarding the utilization of the ₦12 billion security allocation, demanding accountability from the governor.
He also alleged that Lawal and his associates are benefiting from state funds intended to protect the lives and property of Zamfara citizens.
The group highlighted the political repercussions of the alleged corruption, which have included the resignation of a former Inspector General of Police and the defection of a lawmaker.
In light of these allegations, the Zamfara Concerned Citizens have formally requested that the EFCC and ICPC investigate Governor Dauda Lawal’s activities, underscoring the critical importance of accountability and transparency in state governance.
The House of Representatives Committee on Public Petitions has summoned the Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority, Richard Dauda and the Director, Development Control, Galadima Muktar, to appear before it on Tuesday, March 11, 2025.
Both are to explain why the development of an unnamed property, which is said to be objectionable, is allowed to continue despite glaring signs of distorting the Federal Capital Territory’s building codes.
In a petition to the House calling for swift action to halt the trend on Wednesday, Samuel Ajayi, a private citizen, claims that allowing the building to go on will distort the Federal Capital Territory masterplan.
The house is said to be located in the Gusape Cadastral zone of the FCT.
Reacting to the petition, the Chairman of the Committee, Mike Etaba directed that both the Executive Secretary of FCDA and Director of Development Control should appear before the Committee to sort out the issue.
“At this point, it is a complaint until we establish the facts therein. Every Nigerian’s voice must be heard, while all public officers must be made accountable. We shall ensure a fair hearing for all the parties,” Etaba assured.
In a related development, the Committee has summoned the Managing Director of Niger Delta Development Commission, Samuel Ogbuku, to appear in person before it on Tuesday to explain the circumstances surrounding an abandoned contract for the construction of Okpai shoreline protection and landing jetty in Delta state.
This is sequel to a petition by Lynpat Solicitors against Orbit Marine and Energy Services Limited for abandoning the project.
“NDDC holds the key to this case, and the MD must come in person to clear the air. If he fails as he had done before, we’ll take further actions against them,” Etaba warned.
By Tambaya Julius, Abuja
The Jaba Youth Forum, a prominent tribal association in Karu Local Government, Nasarawa State, proudly extended its heartfelt congratulations to Hon. Abubakar Aliyu Madaki following his election as Chairman of Karu Local Government Council.
The delegation, comprising executive members and representatives from all 11 electoral wards, visited the chairman’s office in Karu to express their support and commitment to his administration.
During the visit, Hon. Madaki expressed his gratitude for the association’s gesture, acknowledging the significant presence of the Jaba community in various parts of Karu, including Gunduma, Anguwan Jaba Panda, Ang/Wayo and other Jaba communities. He assured them of his unwavering support and pledged to nurture a strong relationship with the group.
“The Jaba community plays a vital role in the development of Karu Local Government. Your support is deeply appreciated, and I promise that this partnership will be valued and strengthened. We are one family,” Hon. Madaki affirmed.
Speaking further, Hon. Madaki took the opportunity to commend the efforts of Hon. Bawa Rabo Enam, the former Revenue Chairman of Karu Local Government. He acknowledged Bawa Rabo’s influence and contributions, not just in Karu or Nasarawa State, but across Nigeria.
“Bawa Rabo is a highly respected figure whose contributions cannot be overlooked. His impact is widely recognised, and we cherish his role in our community,” Hon. Madaki stated.
He also offered prayers for Hon. Bawa Rabo’s continued success in his political career, emphasising the importance of democratic rights and fair representation for all citizens.
Addressing the Jaba Youth Forum, Hon. Madaki encouraged the group to uphold their reputation as law-abiding and peaceful citizens. He urged them to avoid divisions based on tribal or religious differences, stressing the need for unity in fostering local and state development.
“For Karu and Nasarawa State to progress, we must rise above ethnic and religious politics. Our focus should be on the collective growth and prosperity of our people,” he urged.
Speaking on behalf of the forum, Mr. Victor Tanko, the President of the Jaba Youth Forum, expressed deep appreciation to Hon. Madaki for granting the Association an audience despite his busy schedule.
“We are truly grateful for this opportunity to meet with you, Sir. Your time and attention mean a lot to us,” Mr. Tanko said.
He also commended the chairman for his achievements in tackling traffic congestion along the Masaka-Maraba road. According to him, the significant reduction in gridlock is a testament to Hon. Madaki’s proactive and effective leadership.
Mr. Tanko reassured Hon. Madaki of the forum’s commitment to supporting his administration. He pledged that the Jaba Youth Forum would collaborate with his government throughout his tenure and beyond, working together to ensure progress for the people of Karu.
“The entire Jaba youth community in Karu Local Government formally congratulates you once again on your well-deserved victory,” he added.
Lastly, Mrs. Felicia Jacob, a member of the forum, offered prayers for Hon. Madaki’s success in office. She also took the opportunity to advocate for the inclusion of women in his administration.
“Women should not be left behind. We request more opportunities for women in governance to ensure balanced development,” she urged.
The meeting concluded on a high note, with a shared commitment to unity, development, and continued collaboration between the Jaba Youths and Hon. Madaki’s administration.
A building under construction at Oriwu Street in the Lekki Phase 1 area of Lagos State has collapsed, trapping several people under the rubble.
The state police command’s spokesperson, Benjamin Hundeyin, disclosed in a statement on Wednesday that the incident happened at about 4 pm.
Hundeyin added that 14 persons had been rescued from the rubble and taken to the hospital for medical attention.
He wrote, “Operatives of the Lagos State Police Command have been mobilised to the scene of the collapse of a building under construction at Oriwu Street, Lekki Phase 1 which occurred at about 1600hrs today.
“A total of 14 persons have so far been rescued and taken to Lagos Island General Hospital for treatment.
“Meanwhile, operatives of the Command remain on ground to provide security for the ongoing rescue operation.”
Details later…