Emmanuel OchayiThe Lagos State House of Assembly is set to begin the probing of indicted Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) in the 2022 Auditor-General’s report. This probe is poised to serve as a check against financial recklessness within the state government.
Addressing the public on Monday at the Assembly complex, Hon. Kehinde Olaide Joseph, Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee (State), emphasized the significance of the exercise. He explained, “This exercise is an essential component of our statutory oversight, serving as a vital antidote to financial mismanagement by MDAs in the state.”
This undertaking aligns with the pursuit of enhanced efficiency and best practices, designed to fulfill the statutory goals of the Public Accounts Committee (State).
Joseph articulated the scope of the audit, stating, “The Assembly will scrutinize the audited report of the State Auditor-General concerning the financial accounts of the Lagos State Government for the year 2022, encompassing the period from January 1st to December 31st, 2022, and all economic activities within government sectors.”
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The committee’s responsibilities extend to inviting the heads of implicated MDAs to provide clarifications regarding queries raised in the Auditor-General’s Report, which is aimed at improving service delivery.
Furthermore, the committee aims to confirm financial transaction accuracy, and compliance with regulations, legislations, and accounting standards, and evaluate the financial performance and position of each sector.
Additional scrutiny will include confirming revenue and budget performances of all MDAs, reconciling financial records with the Oracle system, and assessing project management and control systems within Lagos State MDAs.
Joseph acknowledged the challenges ahead, emphasizing the importance of this exercise for the state’s progress and commitment to probity. He urged, “Public expectations are high on this administration, as we are recognized as the reference point in probity and accountability by other states in the Federation.”
He assured that the House of Assembly, under the leadership of Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa, will not disappoint the electorate. The present administration is committed to building upon previous foundations to promote the state’s development. Joseph clarified, “This is not a witch-hunt of any MDA but a means to ensure that the committee’s statutory oversight serves as a check against financial recklessness in the state.”
The findings and recommendations resulting from this comprehensive audit will be compiled and presented to the House for deliberation, with the hope that the resolutions will lead to more effective resource management in Lagos State.
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