Abia State Launches Judicial Panel to Recover Government Assets and Funds
Abia State, located in southeastern Nigeria, has taken a significant step towards recovering government assets and funds that have allegedly been misappropriated or converted for private use. The state recently established a judicial panel of inquiry dedicated to investigating and retrieving these resources. The panel, which held its inaugural sitting in Umuahia, the state capital, is calling on the public to come forward with relevant petitions and information to assist in its investigations.
The chairman of the panel, Justice Florence Duruoha-Igwe (rtd), emphasized that although the panel operates in a quasi-judicial capacity, it is not a court. The primary role of the panel is to review and analyze petitions and memoranda submitted to it, providing advice, recommendations, and remedial measures to the governor based on their findings.
The terms of reference for the panel include receiving and examining complaints and memoranda regarding the looting, conversion, or misappropriation of government property, funds, and related matters. Where necessary, the panel will make recommendations to the government for appropriate remedial actions or sanctions. Additionally, the panel will investigate the illegal acquisition, occupation, or private use of the government’s moveable or immovable assets and funds, identifying those responsible and proposing strategies for recovering the resources.
In a bid to ensure transparency and accountability, the panel has been given the mandate to scrutinize land allocations and revocations in Abia State between May 2015 and May 2023. The objective is to determine the propriety of such actions and address any irregularities. Furthermore, the panel will review the award and execution of contracts during the same period, verifying compliance with relevant laws and regulations.
The terms of reference also empower the panel to investigate any other matters related to its core mandate and make recommendations accordingly. By thoroughly examining these issues, the panel aims to uncover any instances of malfeasance and deliver justice for the people of Abia State.
The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice of Abia State, Ikechukwu Uwanna, highlighted the importance of addressing the alleged looting that the state has witnessed. He urged members of the public to come forward with any pertinent information that could aid the panel in its investigations. Uwanna expressed his gratitude to the panel members for accepting the responsibility of serving in this crucial capacity.
The establishment of the judicial panel of inquiry underscores Abia State’s commitment to good governance, accountability, and the rule of law. By recovering misappropriated assets and funds, the state aims to foster development and progress for its citizens. The success of the panel depends on the active participation and cooperation of the public in reporting any instances of misconduct or corruption. This initiative is a significant step towards ensuring a brighter future for Abia State and its residents.
