Federal Ministry of Finance has denied recent online reports claiming irregularities in the awarding of contracts totaling ₦13 billion between February and June 2024.
In a statement released on Monday, the Ministry described the allegations as “unfounded” and “malicious.” It reiterated its commitment to maintaining transparency and adhering to due process in all its operations.
The reports suggested that the Ministry, led by Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, and Permanent Secretary Mrs. Lydia Shehu Jafiya, had violated procurement procedures.
In response, the Ministry stressed that all contracts awarded during the specified period, including those related to the Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas (Pi-CNG), were in full compliance with the Public Procurement Act and relevant laws.
“This attempt to tarnish the image of the Honourable Minister and the Permanent Secretary is not only baseless but clearly intended to distract from the critical economic reforms being implemented under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration,” the Ministry stated.
Director of Information and Public Relations, Mohammed Manga, who signed the statement, reaffirmed that the Ministry will continue to champion openness and accountability.
He also cautioned the media against the dissemination of unverified information, urging responsible journalism and vowing that the Ministry will not hesitate to seek legal redress against any false and defamatory reports.
The Ministry reassured Nigerians of its dedication to managing the nation’s economy effectively and ethically.
“We urge the public to disregard this publication and be rest assured that the Ministry is working diligently to implement the President’s economic reforms and improve the lives of Nigerians,” the statement concluded.
