The attention of the Kogi State House of Assembly has been drawn to recent allegations published by the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) concerning the management of funds associated with security operations in Kogi State.
As the foremost legislative institution in the state, the House wishes to state unequivocally that the allegations and insinuations regarding legislative failure in the discharge of oversight responsibilities are unfounded, misleading, and do not reflect the realities of the robust oversight mechanisms currently being implemented by the Eighth Assembly.
Under the leadership of the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Aliyu Umar Yusuf, the Kogi State House of Assembly has consistently demonstrated commitment to transparency, accountability and good governance through regular oversight activities across Ministries, Departments and Agencies of government. Committees of the House routinely engage relevant institutions in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities, ensuring that public resources are deployed in accordance with established laws and procedures.
It is important to emphasize that oversight is a continuous constitutional responsibility guided by due process, facts, and verifiable evidence. The House does not conduct its activities based on speculation, media reports, or unverified allegations. Where issues requiring legislative attention arise, the Assembly possesses the constitutional authority and institutional capacity to take appropriate action within the ambit of the law.
The House further notes that the allegations raised by CISLAC remain allegations. The appropriate anti-corruption and law enforcement agencies vested with investigative powers under the law should be allowed to carry out their responsibilities professionally and without prejudice. It is only after the conclusion of such investigations that informed conclusions can be reached.
The Kogi State House of Assembly rejects any attempt to portray it as inactive or negligent in the exercise of its oversight functions. Since its inauguration, the current Assembly has maintained a strong record of legislative scrutiny, budget monitoring, committee engagements, and accountability reviews aimed at promoting efficient service delivery and safeguarding the interests of the people of Kogi State.
The Assembly remains committed to working with all stakeholders, including civil society organisations, in advancing transparency and accountability. However, such engagements must be based on facts, objectivity, and respect for constitutional institutions.
We therefore urge members of the public to remain calm and avoid drawing conclusions from allegations that have yet to be subjected to thorough investigation by the relevant authorities.
The Kogi State House of Assembly will continue to discharge its constitutional mandate diligently and uphold the principles of good governance, transparency, accountability and democratic oversight in the best interest of the people of Kogi State.
Signed:
Yabagi Mohammed,
Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker,
Kogi State House of Assembly
