The Senate Public Accounts Committee has summoned the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) to provide explanations for the outstanding funds owed to the federal government by terminal operators, amounting to $1.85 billion and N1.87 billion. The summons follows the 2019 audit report by the Auditor-General for the Federation, highlighting the indebtedness of terminal operators. The Senate committee, led by Ahmed Wadada, issued a stern ultimatum, giving the NPA 48 hours to appear before the committee or face legal consequences.
Key Points:
- Unpaid Debts by Terminal Operators:
- Terminal operators are reportedly indebted to the federal government, with outstanding amounts totaling $1.85 billion and N1.87 billion. The Senate Public Accounts Committee has sought explanations for these unpaid debts based on the Auditor-General for the Federation’s 2019 audit report.
- Expressed Disappointment and Ultimatum:
- Ahmed Wadada, the Chairman of the Senate Public Accounts Committee, expressed disappointment over the NPA’s failure to respond to queries regarding terminal operators’ indebtedness. The committee issued an ultimatum, demanding the NPA’s management to appear within 48 hours or face legal consequences.
- Query on Outstanding Shipping Dues:
- The 2019 audit report also raised queries about outstanding shipping dues and service boat fees, amounting to over $68 million. The Senate Committee seeks clarification on these critical issues from the NPA.
- Issues Surrounding Channel Management:
- The committee highlighted specific issues related to channel management, including Lagos channel management, Bonny channel management, and Calabar channel management. These issues are expected to be addressed during the NPA’s appearance before the committee.
- Warning Against Disrespecting National Assembly:
- Ahmed Wadada warned that no entity, including the NPA, would be allowed to disrespect or take the National Assembly for granted. The ultimatum serves as a strong message that compliance with the committee’s requests is mandatory, and failure to appear may result in legal action.
- Use of Legal Instruments:
- The committee emphasized its intent to use all available legal instruments to ensure compliance with its requests. The summons and the threat of legal consequences underscore the committee’s commitment to upholding accountability and transparency in the management of public funds.
Conclusion: The Senate’s summons of the Nigerian Ports Authority reflects the legislative body’s commitment to scrutinizing financial matters and ensuring accountability in the public sector. The outstanding debts owed by terminal operators have raised concerns, and the Senate Public Accounts Committee seeks prompt and satisfactory explanations from the NPA to address these financial discrepancies. The ultimatum underscores the seriousness with which the Senate views compliance with its oversight responsibilities.
