The Coalition of Civil Society for Good Governance (CCSGG) has called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to launch a comprehensive investigation into allegations of financial misappropriation involving Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe, Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB). The group claims that ₦9.9 billion (approximately $6.6 million USD) was allegedly diverted for consultancy services under questionable circumstances.
At a press conference in Abuja on Friday, CCSGG convener Comrade Okpanachi Jacob accused Engr. Ogbe of approving the unauthorized transfer of funds for consultancy services without transparency or proper documentation.
Key Allegations
Jacob outlined several concerns, including:
The consultancy contract was not advertised, allegedly violating public procurement laws.
No clear approvals were obtained from the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) and the Federal Executive Council (FEC).
The justification for the ₦9.9 billion payment was insufficient, with claims that the fees were excessive for the project.
Additional financial mismanagement, including ₦503 million spent on a London workshop and ₦400 million on an end-of-year party.
“These are not baseless accusations. There is documentary evidence to support them,” Jacob stated, urging the EFCC to take immediate action.
NCDMB Dismisses Allegations
In response, the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) issued a statement categorically denying the claims, labeling them as false and recycled accusations.
“The NCDMB adheres to the highest standards of accountability, transparency, and due process in its operations,” the board said.
The agency refuted allegations of a ₦7.7 billion expenditure on consultancy, clarifying that S.B Capital Partners & Advisory Limited, a forensic auditing firm, was legally contracted to recover unremitted deductions from oil and gas companies.
Additionally, the NCDMB defended its spending on the strategic workshop in London, stating that it was an annual event aligned with the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development (NOGICD) Act.
Call for Investigation Continues
Despite NCDMB’s rebuttal, CCSGG insists that an independent probe is necessary. “Public funds must be accounted for. We urge the EFCC to uphold transparency and thoroughly investigate these claims,” Jacob concluded.
This case underscores the ongoing scrutiny of government agencies and the demand for financial accountability in Nigeria’s public sector.
