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SERAP Tasks Buhari to Probe Missing N106bn in 149 MDAs

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SERAP

By Adedapo Adesanya

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) in its latest move towards government transparency has urged President Muhammadu Buhari to probe an alleged missing N106 billion public funds from 149 Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).

In a letter dated April 17, 2021, and signed by SERAP Deputy Director, Mr Kolawole Oluwadare, the organisation called on Mr Buhari to “direct the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice Mr Abubakar Malami, and appropriate anti-corruption agencies to investigate allegations that N106 billion of public funds are missing from 149 MDAs, as documented in the 2018 annual audited report by the Auditor-General of the Federation (AGF).”

“Anyone suspected to be responsible should face prosecution as appropriate, if there is sufficient admissible evidence, and any missing public funds should be fully recovered,” the letter added.

The body also urged the president to direct Mrs Zainab Ahmed, the Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, to create a system of public announcements to name and shame the indicted 149 MDAs, including those that reportedly failed to remit over N55 billion of their revenue; awarded contracts of over N18 billion for services not rendered; and spent over N23 billion without any supporting documents.”

“The reported missing public funds reflect the failure of the indicted MDAs to ensure strict compliance with transparency and accountability rules and regulations, and the failure of leadership of the MDAs to foster institutions that uphold the rule of law and human rights.”

According to SERAP, “Recovering the alleged missing public funds would reduce the pressure on the federal government to borrow more money to fund the budget, enable the authorities to meet the country’s human rights obligation to progressively realize Nigerians’ rights to quality health care and education, as well as reduce the growing level of public debts.”

The letter further said, “SERAP urges you to ask Mrs Ahmed and Mr Ahmed Idris, the Accountant-General of the Federation to explain why they allegedly failed to ensure strict compliance with relevant legislation, rules and regulations across all MDAs, despite the warning and recommendations by the Auditor-General.

“SERAP also urges you to direct Mrs Ahmed to publish full details of the yearly budgets of all MDAs and issue regular updates that accurately detail their expenditures, including by making any such information easily accessible in a form that can be understood by the public.

“The Auditor-General stated that the alleged infractions by the 149 MDAs could have been prevented if the Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, and the Accountant General of the Federation had heeded his warning to ensure strict compliance with relevant legislation, rules and regulations across all MDAs.

“SERAP is concerned that the alleged missing public funds have hampered the ability of the MDAs to meet the needs of average citizens, as the missing funds could have helped your government to invest in key public goods and services, and to improve access of Nigerians to these services.

“Investigating and prosecuting the alleged grand corruption documented by the Auditor-General would improve the chances of success of your government’s oft-repeated commitment to fight corruption and end the impunity of perpetrators. It will improve the integrity of MDAs, as well as serve the public interest.

“Any failure to promptly investigate the allegations and prosecute suspected perpetrators would breach Nigeria’s anti-corruption legislation and the country’s international anti-corruption obligations.

“We would be grateful if the recommended measures are taken within 14 days of the receipt and/or publication of this letter. If we have not heard from you by then, the Incorporated Trustees of SERAP shall take all appropriate legal actions to compel your government to comply with our request in the public interest.

“SERAP has carefully analysed the recently released 2018 audited report by the Auditor-General of the Federation and our analysis reveals the grim allegations that N105,662,350,077.46 of public funds are missing, misappropriated or unaccounted for across 149 MDAs in 2018.

“According to the Auditor-General, 35 MDAs failed to remit N48,551,274,468.35 of generated revenue, and N5,418,780,747.23 of statutory deductions including value-added tax, withholding tax, and stamp duties in 2018, thereby ‘depriving the government of the much-needed fund to pursue its agenda.’

“Similarly, 25 MDAs awarded contracts amounting to N18,369,595,564.47 in violation of the Public Procurement Act (PPA), 2007, including disregard to due process, irregularity in payment for contracts, excessive pricing of procurements, payment for services not rendered, and payment in full for uncompleted projects.

“Another N23,486,881,920.49 was spent by 48 MDAs without following the rules and regulations relating to spending procedures and policies, and without any documents to support such spending. Furthermore, 11 MDAs paid N8,389,842,637.88 for store items that were not taken on store charge. The Auditor-General fears that the items may be ‘missing/misappropriated.’

“In addition, 18 MDAs paid N354,223,774.67 as cash advances to staff without duly retiring the money, contrary to the Financial Regulation 1405 and Financial Regulation 1420. According to the Auditor-General, ‘unretired cash and personal advances may be a deliberate attempt to divert public funds for personal use.’

“Moreover, 12 MDAs spent N371,750,964 as cash advances, above the approved threshold of N200,000.00, contrary to the Treasury Circular Ref. No. TRY/A2&B2/2009OAGF/CAD/26/V, which requires all local procurement of stores and services costing above N200,000.00 to be made only through the award of contracts.

“There are several other infractions documented in the report, a copy of which can be obtained from the Auditor-General’s office. The 2018 audited report, therefore, suggests a grave violation of the public trust. These damning revelations also suggest that the indicted MDAs lack effective and credible internal processes to prevent and combat corruption.

“Our requests are brought in the public interest, and in keeping with the requirements of the Nigerian Constitution 1999 [as amended]; anti-corruption legislation, and the country’s international obligations including under the UN Convention against Corruption; and the African Union Convention on Preventing and Combating Corruption to which Nigeria is a state party.

Adedapo Adesanya is a journalist, polymath, and connoisseur of everything art. When he is not writing, he has his nose buried in one of the many books or articles he has bookmarked or simply listening to good music with a bottle of beer or wine. He supports the greatest club in the world, Manchester United F.C.

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Senate Commences Probe into Rising Cost of Data Plans

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By Adedapo Adesanya

On Wednesday, the Senate mandated the Senate Committee on Communications to investigate the recent increase in the cost of internet data packages by telecommunications companies in the country.

Recall that MTN had implemented another price hike on internet plans, the second time in the last three months after the Nigerian Communications Commission’s (NCC) approval of a 50 per cent tariff increase in January.

The probe was part of resolutions after a debate on a bill sponsored by Mr Asuquo Ekpenyong, the Senator representing Cross River South, which highlights the financial strain the price hike has placed on millions of Nigerians, particularly young people who rely on affordable internet access for their livelihoods.

The probe will also recommend solutions for a more sustainable and business-friendly telecommunications sector.

The bill noted that the over 200 per cent increase in costs had “placed significant financial strain on millions of Nigerians, especially young people who rely on the internet for their livelihood.

“Among resolutions passed, the Senate asked the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Mr Bosun Tijani, to engage with telecommunications providers to review the data costs and “ensure that pricing remains fair and affordable for all Nigerians.”

The bill identified multiple factors contributing to the high cost of telecommunications in Nigeria, including poor infrastructure and unreliable power supply; high import duties on ICT equipment; multiple taxation and excessive regulatory charges; security concerns increasing operational risks and insurance costs; bureaucratic bottlenecks slowing business operations and innovation; and high diesel and alternative energy costs due to unreliable national grid supply

To resolve the challenges, lawmakers asked the federal government to engage with network providers to review recent data price increases and ensure fair and affordable pricing.

The red chamber also passed a bill mandating the compulsory registration of citizens to overhaul Nigeria’s identity management system through the repeal and reenactment of the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) Act.

The passage followed the submission and consideration of a report by the Committee on National Identity Card and Population, chaired by Mr Victor Umeh, the senator representing Anambra Central.

Mr Umeh explained that the legislation seeks to establish a harmonised, cost-effective identity system that aligns with global best practices, enhances data accuracy, promotes inclusion and closes existing gaps in Nigeria’s identity database.

Once signed into law, the bill also provides for the creation of a centralized database and a commission responsible for registering citizens and issuing identity cards. It now awaits consideration by the House of Representatives before being forwarded to the President for assent.

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Ikeja Electric Dissociates Self from Two Suspected Cable Thieves

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Ikeja electic staff lawson cable theft

By Modupe Gbadeyanka

Ikeja Electric Plc has dissociated itself from two persons with its identification cards who were caught stealing cables to a transformer in the Lawson community in the Ogba area of Lagos State on March 24, 2025.

In a statement on Wednesday, the energy company claimed the two suspects are employees of a third-party contractor, Arise Business Link, a company engaged by Ikeja Electric for debt recovery operations.

Recall that yesterday, the accused persons were caught by operatives of the Lagos State Neighbourhood Safety Corps (LNSC) while cutting cables in the area and were handed over to the police for prosecution.

Reacting to the incident in a statement today, the Head of Corporate Communications at Ikeja Electric, Mr Kingsley Okotie, confirmed that the suspects are currently being interrogated by the Lagos State Police Command to gather more information about their activities, possible accomplices, and other relevant details to aid their prosecution.

He said they are not on the payroll of the electricity distribution company as it is being circulated on social media.

“To set the record straight, Ikeja Electric does not condone any unlawful act that undermines our commitment to delivering an efficient and reliable power supply. This applies to our direct employees, third-party contractors, and any individuals or groups, regardless of their status.

“Earlier this year, we made a public appeal to community members, security agencies, and traditional institutions to assist in combating vandalism and energy theft by reporting suspicious activities.

“The collaboration with local security groups and communities such as Lawson-Oke-Ira in Ojodu and Epe has been instrumental in tackling these crimes. Just weeks ago, vandals along the Epe corridor were apprehended, and now, another group has been caught.

“We commend the Lagos State Government, security agencies, local communities, traditional rulers, and other stakeholders for their unwavering support in the fight against these criminal activities.

“At Ikeja Electric, we maintain a zero-tolerance policy towards vandalism, energy theft, and safety infractions. These illegal activities not only disrupt power supply but also lead to significant financial losses due to infrastructure replacement and revenue shortfalls,” the statement said.

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How Many Freelance Writing Orders Can You Complete on WriterPro?

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WriterPro

Have you ever wondered how some Kenyan writers manage to earn a stable income despite the tough job market? For many, the answer lies in platforms that offer consistency, flexibility, and opportunity. WriterPro has quickly become a go-to choice for freelance writers across Kenya, standing out for all the right reasons. With a solid reputation for timely payments, a steady stream of writing gigs, and a wide variety of topics, it’s no surprise that more writers are turning to it as a dependable source of income.

For those looking to break into online writing jobs, WriterPro offers a promising start. But just how many orders are these writers actually completing in a month? The numbers might surprise you. In this article, readers will get a clear picture of what to expect, how to boost their order count, and the smartest ways to earn more while working from home. Let’s dive in.

Why WriterPro Is the Go-To Platform for Kenya Writers

Kenya writers, like many freelancers worldwide, face significant challenges in the competitive online job market. Unstable income, unreliable clients, and the constant pressure to stand out are just a few of the hurdles that make freelance work tough. On top of that, the lack of consistent, quality opportunities often leaves many searching for ways to make ends meet. In the midst of these challenges, WriterPro stands out as a game-changer, offering a reliable solution for freelance writing jobs in Kenya.

One of the major benefits of using WriterPro is the consistent workload it provides. Writers have access to a steady stream of writing orders, ensuring a more predictable income. This stability can be a lifesaver in an industry where gig-based income often fluctuates. Moreover, WriterPro is known for its on-time payments, which is a rarity in a market where delayed payments are unfortunately common.

Freelance Writing Orders

Another perk of WriterPro is its flexibility. Writers can choose their own schedule and workload, allowing them to work at their own pace—perfect for students, parents, or anyone who values work-life balance. Writers can even select topics they’re passionate about, from nursing to philosophy, making each order not just a task, but an enjoyable experience. For Kenya writers struggling with unreliable job markets, WriterPro offers a much-needed lifeline.

How Many Orders Can You Complete?

Is it possible to make a full-time income just by writing? For many writers on WriterPro, the answer is a resounding yes. Medium-grade writers on the platform often complete at least 250 orders per month, which is enough to sustain a comfortable lifestyle. For those with a bit more ambition, some manage to hit 350+ orders monthly, while the top-tier experts far exceed this number.

The number of orders you can complete largely depends on your skills, speed, and dedication. Writers who are efficient and committed to producing high-quality content are likely to see a steady flow of orders, allowing them to increase their monthly output. This presents an exciting opportunity for both seasoned and new writers. With the right strategy and mindset, even beginners can achieve impressive results, ultimately building academic writing accounts that help generate a consistent and reliable income.

How to Get Started with Freelance Writing on WriterPro

Getting started with freelance writing on WriterPro is simple and straightforward. The platform’s user-friendly setup makes the registration process easy, even for beginners. Here’s how you can get started:

  • Step 1: Sign up on the WriterPro platform. Visit the website and create an account.
  • Step 2: Complete your profile with accurate information. Be sure to include details about your writing experience and areas of expertise.
  • Step 3: Take a qualification test to demonstrate your writing skills. This helps the platform match you with suitable orders.
  • Step 4: Start browsing orders, selecting those that align with your expertise and interests.

remote writing jobs

The best part is that no prior experience is required—just dedication, creativity, and strong writing skills. Whether you’re new to freelance writing or an experienced writer, anyone can start earning once they complete their writerpro login. So why wait? Take that first step and begin your writing journey today.

How WriterPro Supports Every Freelance Writer

WriterPro isn’t just about earning—it’s about growth and convenience too. For freelancers, the platform offers a range of benefits that go beyond simple work opportunities. It’s designed to support writers in their journey, whether they’re just getting started or looking to level up.

One key benefit of WriterPro is its intuitive platform design. The easy-to-use interface makes navigating orders simple, even for beginners, so writers can quickly dive into their work. In addition, the 24/7 support team is always available to assist with any questions or challenges, ensuring a smooth experience.

For those looking to accelerate their career, WriterPro offers a fast-track career growth opportunity. Ambitious writers can create their own team and collaborate on larger copywriting projects. As writers build relationships with clients, they can enjoy bigger earnings with returning clients—those who request their services directly are often rewarded with a higher percentage of the pay.

Furthermore, WriterPro provides access to a knowledge hub filled with resources, from copywriting tips to communication strategies, empowering writers to improve their skills. With so many resources available, success is within reach. Whether you’re looking for content writing jobs in Kenya or just a steady freelance opportunity, WriterPro makes it easier to get started and thrive.

Conclusion: Your Freelance Writing Journey Awaits

In conclusion, WriterPro offers a unique opportunity for freelance writers, providing stable income, flexible hours, and opportunities for career growth. Imagine earning a steady income from the comfort of your home while writing about topics you enjoy. With WriterPro, you can make this a reality, all while choosing from various online writing jobs in Kenya. So, why wait? Explore WriterPro today and unlock your earning potential. How many orders will you complete this month?

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