Some senators have provided insights into why the Minister of Finance, Kemi Adeosun, has remained exceptionally generous in funneling billions of nair
Some senators have provided insights into why the Minister of Finance, Kemi Adeosun, has remained exceptionally generous in funneling billions of naira to federal lawmakers, sometimes even against the wishes of her bosses at the presidency. PREMIUM TIMES had in a series of reports revealed how the minister repeatedly enriched lawmakers, including by funding unapproved projects and making unappropriated cash payments to the legislative arm of government.
In April, this online platform reported details of the controversial release of N10 billion to the National Assembly by Mrs Adeosun. The lawmaking arm then wasted the money on exotic cars and dubious contracts. Some of the companies to which the contracts were awarded were not even registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission and the Bureau of Public Procurement. In June also, this online platform reported how the minister spent about N12 billion to finance projects the presidency wanted removed from the 2017 budget.
The minister’s action generated uproar nationwide, especially among civil society activists who wondered the motive of such curious financial relationship with federal lawmakers reputed for being self-centred, greedy and corrupt. Two months of asking questions is beginning to provide some insights into the real reason the minister has maintained such cosy relationship with the lawmakers. At least five senators who spoke to Premium Times said the abnormal actions of the minister were activated by the top echelon of the legislature.
“We have never had a finance minister so generous to the National Assembly. But it is not for nothing. The truth is we were able to dig up something unsavoury about her and our leaders are holding her by the jugular,” one Senator said.
