Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has exposed alleged fund diversion in the National Assembly, revealing how lawmakers and civil servants mismanage committee funds. She refuted corruption allegations, detailing how she safeguarded public funds. Her revelations highlight deeper issues of financial misconduct in governance.
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has accused lawmakers and civil servants of routinely diverting committee funds for personal use, shedding light on financial mismanagement within the National Assembly.
Speaking on AriseTV Morning Show, Akpoti-Uduaghan dismissed allegations of corruption leveled against her by the Northern Youths Advocacy for Excellence (NOYAD), which petitioned the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions. The petition accused her of financial misconduct, blackmailing oil and gas companies, and creating a hostile work environment.
In response, the former Chair of the Senate Committee on Local Content revealed that each committee receives ₦950,000 monthly for operations. However, she was informed that these funds were traditionally shared among committee members and staff instead of being used for official purposes. Rejecting this practice, she directed that the funds remain in the account for legitimate expenditures like office equipment and stationeries.
Akpoti-Uduaghan further alleged that after she left office, the committee’s account balance of ₦13.6 million was reduced to ₦123,000, with ₦5 million and ₦4.9 million withdrawn shortly after her removal. She defended her leadership, stating that she never misused funds and only sought to ensure transparency.
She also justified her decision to review staff credentials, arguing that qualified professionals were necessary for effective oversight of oil and gas industry regulations. She dismissed claims that this amounted to staff harassment, insisting that accountability should be prioritized in governance.
Akpoti-Uduaghan has called for reforms to address financial mismanagement in the National Assembly.
