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By Tracy Moses
The House of Representatives has launched an investigation into all security intervention funds released by the Federal Government from 2020 to date, with a pledge to ensure transparency, accountability, and judicious use of resources meant for national security.
Chairman of the Ad Hoc Committee on the Expenditure of All Security Intervention Funds, Hon. Zakaria Nyampa, announced this during the committee’s inauguration on Thursday at the National Assembly, Abuja.
Nyampa said the inquiry became necessary following the gap between huge budgetary allocations to the security sector and the persistent insecurity across the country.
“This investigation is not a witch-hunt,” he clarified. “Our goal is to ensure that every naira released for security is used for its intended purpose, to protect the lives and property of Nigerians.”
He explained that the probe would cover all intervention programmes, special allocations, and procurement processes in beneficiary agencies, adding that the committee would also assess the impact of such spending on national security. “We are determined to trace every fund with professionalism, fairness, and patriotism,” Nyampa stated.
To guarantee openness, the committee will work closely with the Ministry of Finance, Budget Office, Office of the National Security Adviser, the armed forces, police authorities, and anti-corruption agencies such as the EFCC and ICPC. It will also partner with civil society organizations like BudgIT, CISLAC, and SERAP. “Transparency is the foundation of good governance,” he added.
Nyampa warned that diverting funds meant for security has grave consequences. “When resources meant to secure the nation are misused, the loss is not only in naira but in human lives. We cannot afford to fail,” he said, assuring that the committee’s findings would strengthen security financing and rebuild public trust.
In his remarks, Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, reaffirmed the legislature’s commitment to transparency and accountability in the management of public funds.
Represented by the Deputy Chief Whip, Hon. Ibrahim Isiaka, the Speaker said the establishment of the committee reflects the House’s resolve to enhance oversight and ensure responsible handling of security resources.
He urged committee members to carry out their assignment with fairness, diligence, and integrity, the core values of the legislature, and commended Nyampa for his readiness to lead the task with courage and credibility.