The Accountant-General of the Federation, Mrs Oluwatoyin Sakirat Madein, has shared insight into the scandal N585m is currently generating.
The memo with which the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr Betta Edu instructed Madein to pay the sum into private bank account of one Oniyelu Bridget Mojisola, a worker in the ministry leaked, sparking outrage and many calls for Edu’s sack.
Speculation that the money was paid as directed has been contradicted by the AGF by proxy.
The Director of Press in her office, Mr Jacob Mokwa, said she declined the directive and took the decision to act within the law.
“The AGF explained that although her office received the said request from the ministry, it did not carry out the payment.
“The ministry was, however, advised on the appropriate steps to take in making such payments in line with the established payment procedure.
“The AGF noted that in such situations, payments are usually processed by the affected ministries as self-accounting entities and no bulk payment is supposed to be made to an individual’s account in the name of the project accountant.
“She added that such payment should be sent to the beneficiaries through their verified bank accounts.
“Dr Madein reiterated her determination to uphold the principles of accountability and transparency in the management of public finances. She advised MDAs to always ensure that the requisite steps are taken in carrying out financial transactions,” the statement read in part.
