Lagos Assembly Begins Scrutiny of 2024 Auditor-General’s Report, Summons MDAs

The Committee on Public Accounts (State) of the Lagos State House of Assembly has begun deliberations on the 2024 Auditor-General’s Report examining the financial activities of Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).

Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Kehinde Joseph, disclosed this on Monday while briefing journalists at the Assembly Complex in Alausa, Ikeja.

Joseph explained that the review aligns with the legislature’s constitutional mandate to promote transparency, accountability, and prudent management of public resources. He noted that Sections 125 and 129 of the 1999 Constitution empower the committee to scrutinize government accounts and summon individuals to provide documents or evidence when required.

He stressed that the ongoing exercise is aimed at ensuring that government programmes deliver value for money and adhere to financial regulations and ethical standards—not to target or witch-hunt any agency.

“As we proceed with this exercise, we will be inviting heads of indicted MDAs to clarify issues raised in the Auditor-General’s Report,” he said. “We expect full cooperation and transparency from all parties involved. Our commitment is to build a culture where citizens trust that their taxes are being utilized effectively and efficiently.”

The committee will evaluate capital expenditures, verify their alignment with budgetary provisions, and examine financial records to identify lapses. It will also review project management processes, inspect fixed asset registers, and verify the status of abandoned projects to ensure optimal use of public funds.

Joseph described the process as vital to strengthening public accountability in Lagos, noting that citizens expect high standards of governance.

He expressed gratitude to the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, for his leadership and support, and commended committee members for their diligence and dedication to the assignment.

“Let us work together to make Lagos State a model of good governance, transparency, and accountability,” he said.