PDP calls for investigation into alleged fraud in Kebbi’s NG-Cares disbursement

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kebbi State has called for a full-scale investigation into the alleged fraudulent activities linked to the disbursement of the NG-Cares (Kaura Cares) programme in the state.

This demand follows revelations from Kebbi’s Commissioner for Information and Culture, Alhaji Yakubu Ahmed-BK, who disclosed possible irregularities within the programme during a statement issued on September 4th, 2024 as reported by NAN.

The PDP, represented by its Secretary, Alhaji Abubakar Bawa-Kalgo, expressed serious concerns regarding the state government’s lack of transparency and failure to hold the culprits accountable.

Bawa-Kalgo emphasized the urgency of revealing those behind the alleged fraudulent acts.

“The PDP urges the Kebbi government and Anti-Corruption Agencies to publicly reveal the individuals involved in these fraudulent action.” he said.

He added that the party is troubled by the government’s failure to act against those involved or disclose their identities to the public.

NG Cares is a Nigerian government initiative established to mitigate the economic challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. The programme aims to protect livelihoods, support economic recovery, and strengthen social protection systems across the country. It provides financial assistance to vulnerable households through cash transfers, food vouchers, and social safety nets.

The initiative has significantly impacted the lives of millions of Nigerians by offering financial relief and fostering economic recovery for those most affected by the pandemic. In Kebbi State, a localized version of the programme, known as ‘Kaura Cares,’ recently disbursed N6.5 billion to 65,000 beneficiaries under the Livelihood Support Programme. Governor Nasir Idris officially launched the disbursement on August 26, 2024, personally overseeing the transactions during a public event.

However, despite the programme’s positive intent, allegations of fraudulent activities in Kebbi State have emerged. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has called for a thorough investigation into these claims, expressing concerns about the transparency and management of the funds. The PDP has urged anti-corruption bodies, including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), to review the programme’s implementation in the state to uncover any possible mismanagement and ensure accountability.

The PDP secretary further highlighted the internal control issues, noting that only officials responsible for the disbursement process had access to sensitive account details of the programme’s beneficiaries. Bawa-Kalgo remarked that the commissioner’s statement raises suspicion of a potential cover-up, possibly involving high-ranking officials within the state.

He criticised the exploitation of the NG-Cares initiative, which was designed to aid the vulnerable. “The PDP expresses disappointment that a programme meant to support the poor and vulnerable has been exploited by those entrusted with its management at the detriment of the intended beneficiaries.” Bawa-Kalgo said.

Bawa-Kalgo stated that these evaluations would help uncover the extent of the mismanagement and ensure accountability for any fraudulent activities.

As of December 31, 2023, only $420.48 million, or 56% of the total funds, has been accessed by states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Despite the availability of these funds at concessionary rates with less than 2% interest, much remains unutilised, prompting the call for immediate action.

The Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Atiku Bagudu urged Nigerian states to expedite the process of accessing the remaining $329.52 million from the Nigeria COVID-19 Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus (NG-CARES) programme.

The Federal CARES Steering Committee has disbursed $645 million (about N1.062 trillion) to various states, impacting over 9 million people.

Additionally, states have contributed N120 billion to support the programme’s implementation, further enhancing its reach and effectiveness.