The Federal Ministry of Finance has responded to an online publication, Akelicious, which suggested that under the leadership of Honourable Minister Mr. Wale Edun and Permanent Secretary Mrs. Lydia Shehu Jafiya, contracts totaling ₦13 billion were awarded between February and June 2024 without following due process.
The Ministry categorically denies these claims, stating that at no point were contracts awarded without adhering to the proper procedures. The Ministry describes the allegations as “unfounded” and “malicious,” aimed at tarnishing the reputation of the Honourable Minister and the Permanent Secretary, as well as distracting from ongoing efforts to revamp the nation’s economy under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The Ministry further emphasizes that all contracts awarded between February and June 2024, including those related to the Presidential Initiatives on Compressed Natural Gas (Pi-CNG), were done in strict accordance with the Public Procurement Act and other relevant laws and regulations. The suggestion of corruption or irregularities is baseless and without merit.
Reaffirming its commitment to transparency and accountability, the Ministry highlights the efficient management of the national economy and acknowledges the important role of the media in promoting good governance. The Ministry calls on the media to verify information before publishing, warning that it will not hesitate to take legal action against anyone attempting to damage its reputation through false or malicious publications.
The Ministry urges the public to disregard the false claims and assures that it is committed to the successful implementation of the President’s economic reforms to improve the lives of Nigerians.