The Kogi State House of Assembly has taken a firm stance on accountability, re-inviting the Ministry of Solid Minerals to appear before it in order to defend its 2024 budget estimate. This call to action also extends to the Director-General of the Kogi State Solid Mineral Development Agency.

The directive was issued by Hon. Omotayo Adeleye Ishaya, Chairman of the House Standing Committee on Solid Minerals, at the Assembly complex. This decision was prompted by the absence of the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry and the Director-General of the agency.

Expressing his dismay, Hon. Jibril Abu, the Committee Vice Chairman and current lawmaker representing Ajaokuta State Constituency, underscored the significance of fulfilling this obligation. He emphasized the Governor’s exemplary appearance before the chamber to present the State budget, thereby emphasizing the importance of compliance with established protocols.

Abu articulated, “It is a big slap on our faces to see some heads of MDAs ignoring the constituted power of this hallow Chamber. The number one Citizen of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, suspended all functions of the State to present the 2024 budget.”

He continued, “He respected this Assembly because he has a strong belief in the rule of law. But we are very disappointed that some Heads of MDAs are undermining our powers by sending their subordinates to defend the budget they have a faint knowledge of.”

Asserting the critical role of the Permanent Secretary as the Chief Accounting Officer, Abu highlighted the obligation of all MDAs to participate in the technical defense of their budgets. He expressed profound disappointment at the failure of the Permanent Secretary to appear before the Assembly and underscored the House’s decision to provide another opportunity for the Ministry to fulfill its responsibilities.

“While we acknowledge that the Kogi State Commissioner for Solid Minerals, Hon. Bashiru Gegu, is out for a State function duly transmitted to us earlier, it is totally condemnable and unacceptable that the Permanent Secretary, who is the Chief Accounting Officer of the ministry, failed to appear before us to defend their budget. The House, out of its magnanimity, have decided to give them another saving grace to appear before them on Tuesday, December 19, 2023. Failure for them to appear, this Hallow Chamber will record zero budget for the Ministry of Solid Minerals in Kogi State,” Abu concluded.

The Kogi State House of Assembly’s unwavering commitment to upholding accountability stands as a testament to the importance of transparent governance and adherence to established procedures. This resolute stance sends a clear message that all officials are expected to honor their obligations, ensuring the effective and responsible management of public resources.