The Kwara State House of Assembly has called for enhanced transparency in the audit processes of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) within the state.
The resolution was part of the discussions during the plenary proceedings on Wednesday, 8th May, 2024, presided over by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Engr. Yakubu Danladi Salihu.
The lawmakers stressed the need for greater transparency by the presentation of the report from the Public Accounts Committee on the Audit Queries concerning the financial accounts of various MDAs for the year ended 31st December, 2022.
The report, presented by the Committee’s Chairman, Hon. Abolarin Ganiyu Gabriel (Ekiti), revealed that many MDAs had failed to respond to audit queries within the stipulated time frame.
The House urged all MDAs to comply with the Kwara State Audit Law, the Kwara State Financial Regulations, and other relevant regulations to ensure timely responses to audit queries.
The Assembly emphasized that non-compliance with these regulations could lead to sanctions and hinder the efficient oversight of public funds.
In addition, the House advised that the audit fees for all MDAs be centralized in the annual budget of the State Auditor-General’s office.
Another significant resolution from the plenary was the House’s call for the Governor to direct the joint Task Force on petroleum products to investigate the causes of petrol scarcity in the state and address sharp practices by errant fuel marketers.
The House further directed its Committee on Commerce, Industry, Women Affairs, and Social Development to oversee the Task Force’s operations to ensure efficiency and integrity.