The Kwara Transparency and Accountability Initiative (KTAI) has called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate alleged financial mismanagement by two key officials in Kwara State. Dr. AbdulWasiu Tejidini, head of the Kwara State Social Investment Programme (KWASSIP), and Baba Okanla, Chairman of the Kwara State Independent Electoral Commission (KWASIEC), are accused of misappropriating N14.2 billion in public funds. Breakdown of Allegations In a detailed petition sent to EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede on November 28, 2024, and obtained by The Guardian, the Executive Director of KTAI, Nurudeen Adebayo, outlined grave concerns: Call for Accountability Adebayo emphasized the importance of holding these officials accountable, arguing that their actions undermine federal efforts to combat corruption and alleviate poverty. He urged the EFCC to act swiftly by arresting and prosecuting those responsible to restore public trust. “These offices, which should drive development, have allegedly become channels for siphoning public funds, worsening hunger, frustration, and disenfranchisement among citizens,” Adebayo stated. Concerns Over Local EFCC Office In a notable move, the petition bypassed the EFCC’s Ilorin Zonal Office, citing fears of undue influence from the Kwara State Governor. Adebayo warned of an alleged alliance between the governor and the Ilorin office, which could compromise investigations. Instead, the petition was directed to EFCC Headquarters in Abuja, urging decisive intervention. Public Outcry Over Corruption The allegations come at a time when EFCC Chairman Olanipekun Olukoyede has reiterated that corruption remains one of Africa’s biggest obstacles to development. KTAI’s petition paints a picture of a state administration plagued by corruption, with citizens bearing the brunt of its consequences. “This administration appears to be the most corrupt in Kwara State’s history. It’s time for decisive action to end this trend and hold public officers accountable,” the petition concluded. Key Takeaways The ball is now in the EFCC’s court to address these pressing allegations and deliver justice to the people of Kwara State. READ ALSO:
The Northern Economic Development Forum has eased concerns raised by Northern governors over the new tax reform policies introduced by President Bola Tinubu, assuring that these reforms will benefit the northern region. Northern governors initially opposed the Tax Reform Bills, urging the National Assembly to reject them, arguing that the reforms might not align with the North’s interests. However, the development forum expressed confidence in the reform’s potential benefits, stating that the proposed tax laws aim to modernize and improve Nigeria’s tax system without adverse effects. President Tinubu and the Federal Executive Council recently introduced legislation to overhaul tax processes, unify revenue collection, and streamline financial obligations for both businesses and citizens. The Northern Economic Development Forum emphasized the importance of thoroughly understanding the proposed bills before opposing them. They announced plans for a comprehensive awareness campaign across the 19 northern states to rally support for the Tax Reform Bills, asserting that the reforms will drive progress in the North and benefit the entire country. In a statement signed by Dr. Mustapha Ibrahim Gusau, the forum explained critical elements of the four bills—the Nigeria Tax Act, Nigeria Tax Administration Act, Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Act, and Joint Revenue Board (Establishment) Act—highlighting that the reforms are intended to clear up misconceptions. READ ALSO: The forum clarified that the new tax policies are not designed to increase the number of taxes but rather to optimize current tax systems without adding complexity. It also stressed that: The Forum highlighted that these bills will harmonize tax laws, enhance efficiency, modernize the tax system, and strengthen coordination among revenue agencies. They are also expected to foster transparency, align with international standards, and expand the tax base. The forum called on Nigerians, particularly in the North, to support the reforms and avoid unnecessary alarm.
