An anti-corruption and accountability organisation, the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA) has called on Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Prof Isa Pantami, to provide explanations regarding the procurement process of the N24.2 billion internet facility project being handled by the Ministry.
HEDA in a Freedom of Information (FOI) request signed by its Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju and addressed to Prof Isa Pantami, requested clarification on the procurement process, which led to the approval of the project by the Federal Executive Council (FEC). The project for which N24.2 billion was allocated has to do with the provision of internet facilities at 20 airports, educational institutions, and markets across Nigeria.
In the FOI document made available to The Explainer, HEDA recalled that the information on the allocation of funds was earlier disclosed by the Minister and reported in the news on March 29, 2023. HEDA cited Sections 2, 3, and 4 of the Freedom of Information (FoI) Act of 2011 in requesting detailed information about the procurement process leading to the FEC’s approval.
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The organization sought to understand whether the project was covered in the approved 2023 budget and the specific budget line under, which it falls. It also requested information on the approved contractors responsible for implementing the contracts, including their identities and the terms of the contract.
The civil society group also stressed that it looks forward to receiving the requested information within seven days from the receipt of their letter. The organization also expressed its willingness to provide further clarification on the details of the request if necessary.
As a leading anti-corruption organization in Nigeria, HEDA has consistently advocated for transparency, accountability, and good governance in public spending. Its demand for an explanation on the procurement process of the N24.2bn internet facility project highlights its commitment to ensuring that public funds are used judiciously and in accordance with due process.
