Abuja: The Centre for Public Accountability (CPA), in conjunction with other civic groups, has called for a thorough investigation into alleged financial misconduct within the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB). The allegations involve the misappropriation of N7.7 billion ($4.7 million) without necessary approvals, contravening procurement regulations.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, CPA Executive Director, Dr. Ebenezer Oladapo, accused the Executive Secretary of the NCDMB, Mr. Felix Ogbe, of authorizing expenditures that bypassed due process. The CPA claims that the amount spent exceeded the approval limits set by the Ministerial Tenders Board (MTB) and raised concerns about the transactions being processed through the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) without verifiable evidence of services rendered by the consultant who received the funds.
The CPA warned that such financial practices could undermine President Bola Tinubu’s anti-corruption agenda and efforts to enhance accountabili
ty in public institutions. It has urged President Tinubu to launch an immediate and independent investigation into the financial activities of the NCDMB under its current leadership.
Additionally, the CPA announced its intention to petition the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), and other relevant agencies to ensure a comprehensive probe into the allegations. The organization has issued a seven-day ultimatum for the government to take action, warning that inaction would lead to the mobilization of legal and civic measures to hold those responsible accountable.
The statement from the CPA emphasized its commitment to promoting transparency, accountability, and integrity in public financial management, insisting that public funds must be managed in strict adherence to due process.
The News Agency of Nigeria recalls that the NCDMB defended its spending following reports of alleged financial misappropriation. The Board
confirmed organizing a strategic workshop costing N580 million as part of its 10-year Strategic Roadmap aimed at boosting local content in the oil and gas sector. In response to claims of diverting N7.7 billion into questionable contracts, the NCDMB maintained that all expenditures adhered to due process and were under strict government oversight.