Centre for Democracy and Human Rights (CEDEHUR) has endorsed the ongoing investigation by the National Assembly of the alleged misappropriation of $300 million earmarked for combating malaria in Nigeria. It called for sanction for those that would be indicted by the probe.
CEDEHUR’s stance stems from alarming revelations regarding the breach of agreements between the Nigerian government and the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS), tasked with administering the funds. Initially intended to bolster local industries by enlisting local vendors for the production of mosquito nets, the agreement was flouted as UNOPS opted for foreign imports, directly undermining Nigerian businesses and flouting established protocols.
In a media briefing held in Abuja, CEDEHUR’s national coordinator, Sunday Ogonu, said the ramifications of this mismanagement extend beyond mere financial loss, with malaria continuing to wreak havoc on the nation’s populace, leading to depopulation, diminished productivity, and economic setbacks.
Ogonu firmly asserts that those responsible must be held accountable for their actions.
He stated that the reluctance of the Ministry of Health to cooperate with the investigative process further exacerbated the situation, with allegations of attempts to derail proceedings in favour of foreign interests. CEDEHUR condemned such unpatriotic behaviour and called for full transparency and cooperation from all involved parties.
In the light of these developments, CEDEHUR proposed several urgent measures: “Full Accountability: The National Assembly must compel the appearance of key officials, including the Minister of Health and UNOPS representatives, to elucidate their roles in the mismanagement of funds.
“Legal Action: The involvement of anti-graft agencies is imperative to ensure that those found guilty of malfeasance face appropriate consequences.
“Termination of UNOPS Contract: Given UNOPS’s disregard for established agreements and its tarnished reputation, CEDEHUR advocates for the immediate termination of their involvement in the project.
“Support for Local Vendors: Local companies that were unfairly sidelined during the bidding process must be reinstated and supported in fulfilling their obligations to supply mosquito nets, thereby stimulating economic growth and job creation.”
He said, the organisation remains steadfast in its commitment to promoting transparency, accountability, and good governance for the betterment of all Nigerians.