The misappropriation of funds intended to address the COVID-19 pandemic is a clear indicator that a thorough investigation is needed. The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offenses Commission (ICPC) recently discovered that about 10 billion naira, allocated for the development of COVID-19 vaccines, remains stuck in the accounts of various government Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) three years after the intervention. This has led to a nationwide outcry for accountability and justice.
The ICPC established monitoring groups to oversee the allocation of $3.4 billion in COVID-19 relief funds from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). These funds were distributed among nine MDAs for urgent pandemic response efforts. However, the commission discovered that more than 100 million naira, which was supposed to be used for Wi-Fi installation, was found in the personal account of a government employee.
In response to a Freedom of Information lawsuit by the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP), the Federal High Court in Lagos ordered the former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs to reveal how N729 billion in palliative funds were supposedly distributed to 24.3 million impoverished Nigerians over a period of six months. This court order reflects the widespread dissatisfaction of Nigerians regarding the handling of COVID-19 funds.
The funds intended for the care and welfare of the sick, socially displaced, pensioners, prisoners, and the poor are often mismanaged by corrupt officials. The House of Representatives has directed its Committee on Public Accounts to investigate the misappropriation of ₦9.9 billion in COVID-19 intervention funds. These funds were meant to alleviate the suffering caused by the pandemic and to boost the economy.
During the pandemic, many Nigerians died in isolation centers due to a lack of essential oxygen. Vulnerable elderly people in need of critical medical attention were denied access to basic healthcare services because of corruption. Additionally, COVID-19 relief items intended for distribution to vulnerable Nigerians were hoarded in private warehouses by greedy individuals. While the pandemic wreaked havoc, funds were being mismanaged, highlighting the inhumanity of some public officers.
The widespread frauds compromised the fight against the disease and revealed vulnerabilities in Nigeria’s healthcare system. Hospitals were unable to cope with the high number of patients, and there were shortages of medical supplies and healthcare personnel. The economic impact of the pandemic resulted in job losses and reduced income for many Nigerians, worsening the situation.
The Federal Government must take a multi-faceted approach to ensure accountability, recover stolen funds, and prevent future occurrences. Thorough and independent investigations are needed to identify and prosecute those responsible. Anti-corruption institutions like the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and ICPC must be strengthened to ensure transparency in the allocation and use of public funds.
Ministers, officials, or any individuals involved in fraudulent practices must be held accountable. The government should encourage whistleblowers to report corruption by providing legal protections and incentives. Engaging civil society organizations and anti-corruption NGOs in monitoring and reporting the use of public funds is crucial.
By taking these steps, the government can demonstrate its commitment to fighting corruption, restoring public trust, and ensuring that public funds are used effectively and transparently.
Source: The Guardian
