The House of Representatives has called for an explanation from several high-ranking government officials following the ongoing delay in paying contractors for completed government projects since October 2024, even though funds were earmarked in the 2024 budget.
Those summoned include Central Bank Governor Yemi Cardoso, Finance Minister and Economic Coordinator Wale Edun, Budget and Planning Minister Atiku Bagudu, Federation Accountant-General Babatunde Ogunjimi, and Auditor-General Shaakaa Chira.
The initiative came after Delta State lawmaker Ezechi Nnamdi raised the issue as a matter of urgent national concern.
Nnamdi noted that many contractors are suffering financially due to unpaid invoices, despite project verification and budgetary approval.
According to him, many government agencies have received less than half of their allocated capital funds, leading to widespread abandonment of critical projects.
He warned that if left unresolved, the situation could trigger protests, lawsuits, and further deterioration of national infrastructure and services.
The failure, he added, has also undermined public trust in government-led development efforts.
In response, the House scheduled a session for Tuesday, May 13, 2025, during which the summoned officials are expected to provide clarification and outline plans for settling the debt.
Additionally, the House directed its Committees on Public Accounts and Budget and Economic Planning to investigate the causes of the payment delays and recommend potential legislative remedies within four weeks.
The probe will scrutinise the handling of funds within the concerned Ministries, Departments, and Agencies to ensure accountability and transparency in public spending..