By Ndidi Chukwu
The Federal Government of Nigeria has directed Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC) to commence full investigation of the alleged misappropriation of Global Fund Grants received by Nigeria from 2010 to 2014.
A Press Statement from the Federal Ministry of Health, said the investigation is necessary for the country to clarify the alleged embezzlement and bring those found guilty to book.
The statement quoted the Minister of Health, Professor Isaac Adewole, saying President Muhammadu Buhari gave the directive as part of government’s effort and commitment to fight corruption in the country.
It was gathered that the president has also directed the Secretary to the Government of Federation, Babachir David Lawan to review earlier audit reports from the office of Inspector General (OIG).
“The SGF has set-up two high-powered investigative panels to look in to the affected programmes and the financial transactions. The first panel headed by the Minister of Health will conduct in-depth review of all programmes, while the second panel chaired by Auditor General of the Federation, Mr. Samuel Ukura will review all financial transactions during the period,” the statement said.
“President Buhari has assured members of the international community that all funds received by Nigeria would be well utilised and accounted for under his watch to avoid national embarrassment,” Adewole said.
The minister further said that all indicted officials would be given fair hearing and those found guilty would be sanctioned to serve as deterrent to others.
Health Reporters gathered that the recent OIG report by Global Fund indicted three agencies of Federal Government of Nigeria for misappropriation of specific intervention grants released.
