The House of Representatives Committee on the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Councils and Ancillary Matters is unhappy because certain agencies under the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) did not respond to its calls.
Frederick Agbedi, who is the chairman of this Committee, spoke about this issue during an investigative hearing organized by the panel. He mentioned that the Committee plans to take action against the Social Development Secretariat, which manages the Area councils, because it keeps ignoring the Committee’s invitations.
Mr. Agbedi emphasized that the Committee will use its authority to force these agencies to give an account of their activities. He also said they will report the agencies to President Bola Tinubu. He explained that after using money from the budget, agencies need to explain how they spent it before they can receive more funds. If they avoid this, it suggests they are hiding something, which is not acceptable. The Committee is determined to ensure that these agencies provide better services to the public.
The chairman further stated that the constitution requires every public office holder to be accountable. While some agencies have submitted their reports, many have not done so for about a year. The Committee has been patient, but their patience has run out.
From now on, the Committee will use its power to demand accountability. Any agency that fails to provide an account is seen as avoiding responsibility, which is against the law. The law allows for actions to be taken, including investigating the agency involved.
