Centre Demands Probe Into Alleged N7.7 Billion Misappropriation by NCDMB Executive Secretary
The Centre for Public Accountability (CPA), in collaboration with other civic organizations, has called for an immediate and thorough investigation into allegations of financial misconduct involving Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe, the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB).
In a press statement issued on Saturday and signed by Dr. Ebenezer Oladapoon, the CPA expressed grave concerns over the alleged misappropriation of N7.7 billion ($4.7 million), claiming that the funds were spent without proper authorization or adherence to procurement regulations.
According to the CPA, the expenditures exceeded the approval limits of the Ministerial Tenders Board (MTB) and were processed through the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) without clear justification. The organization further alleged that payments were made to a consultant without verifiable proof that any services were rendered or funds recovered in exchange for the disbursement.
Allegations of Financial Misconduct
The CPA described the NCDMB under Engr. Ogbe’s leadership as a “cesspool of corruption,” citing repeated violations of procurement laws and financial mismanagement. The group warned that it would not stand idly by while public officials entrusted with national resources engaged in reckless financial misconduct. It also called on the Nigerian government to uphold transparency and accountability in managing public funds.
The CPA issued a seven-day ultimatum for the commencement of a thorough investigation into the allegations. It warned that if no substantial steps were taken within this period, the organization would mobilize all legal and civic mechanisms at its disposal to ensure those responsible were held accountable.
CPA Statement Calls for Immediate Action
“The Centre for Public Accountability (CPA), in partnership with other civic groups, expresses deep concern over recent allegations of financial misconduct within the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), specifically the misappropriation of N7.7 billion ($4.7 million) without requisite approval from the appropriate authorities, as mandated by relevant procurement protocols and policies,” the statement read in part.
The CPA alleged that Engr. Ogbe authorized the expenditures in a manner that flagrantly disregarded procurement regulations and exceeded even the approval limits of the MTB.
“What is most troubling is that these payments were processed through the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) without any verifiable evidence that the consultant, to whom the funds were allegedly paid, had indeed recovered the funds that warranted such a significant financial outlay.”
The organization further emphasized that the alleged financial misconduct undermines President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to tackling corruption and ensuring accountability in public institutions.
Calls for Government Intervention
In response to these allegations, the CPA has urged President Tinubu to institute a comprehensive and independent probe into the financial activities of the NCDMB, particularly under the current leadership.
“We are determined to escalate this matter by petitioning the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), and other relevant agencies to unearth the acts of corruption allegedly being perpetrated within the NCDMB.”
The statement concluded with a firm ultimatum:
“We hereby issue a seven-day ultimatum for the commencement of a thorough probe into these allegations. If no substantial steps are taken within this period, the Centre for Public Accountability will mobilize all legal and civic mechanisms at our disposal to ensure that those responsible are held accountable.”
“We will no longer stand by while public officials entrusted with the nation’s resources engage in reckless financial misconduct without consequences. The Nigerian people demand transparency, accountability, and justice, and we will persist in our mission to ensure that public funds are managed with integrity and in strict adherence to due process.”
As of now, there has been no official response from Engr. Ogbe or the NCDMB regarding these allegations.
