Elekeokwuri Tasks Government Agencies on Probity in Management of Public Funds

The Delta State House of Assembly Committee on Public Accounts has stressed the need for transparency and accountability in the management of finances of Delta State Government.

The Chairman of the Committee, Hon Anthony Elekeokwuri who stated this at the inaugural meeting of the committee at the state House of Assembly Complex in Asaba, said probity must be the watchword.

Hon Elekeokwuri who represents Ika North East in the House, explained that transparency and accountability is way forward for good governance by any government.

Flanked by some members of the Committee, including Honorables Solomon Ighrakpata, Emeke Nwaobi, Peter Uviejitobor, Felix Anirah and Charles Oniyere, Hon Elekeokwuri described the task before the committee as enormous.

He said that state government agencies, including institutions and local government administrators would time to time be invited to appear before the committee to give account of how they are spending public funds in their control.

Hon Elekeokwuri stressed that the measure was not to witch-hunt anybody but to keep all concern on their toes to ensure that every money spent is accounted for.

The Lawmaker said that is what obtains in every government circle that is determined to making a difference on the lives of the govern.

Hon Elekeokwuri commended the state Governor, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa for encouraging the work of the committee by submitting the administration for desired scrutiny.

The Public Accounts Committee Chairman warned MDAs against flouting the relevant financial laws in the state including the fiscal responsibility and the audit laws.

He said the committee can not jettison its responsibility on the altar of politics, promising to surpass the achievements recorded in the immediate-past Sixth Assembly as the Chairman, House Committee on Public Accounts.

Other Members of the Delta State House of Assembly Committee on Public Accounts

The Lawmaker appealed to members and the secretariat of the committee to be committed to the task ahead as good financial management in the state would help to achieving the Stronger Delta mantra of the state government.

Hon Elekeokwuri said the Committee is a tool in which the legislature oversees government income and expenditure to ensure proper utilization of public funds.

Earlier, the Clerk of the Committee, Mr Alex Joe said the public accounts committee is viewed as the apex for financial scrutiny and accountability in any democratic government.

The State Auditor-General, Mr Paul Aghanenu attended the meeting.