Audit report flags N100bn irregularities in six FCT councils

A fresh audit report has uncovered extensive financial infractions amounting to over N100 billion across six area councils in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), raising renewed concerns about fiscal discipline and accountability at the grassroots level.

The report, prepared by the Office of the Auditor-General for the FCT Area Councils, indicts Abaji, Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), Bwari, Gwagwalada, Kuje and Kwali for multiple violations of public finance regulations during the 2021 fiscal year.

Chairman of the committee, Rep. Bamidele Salam, stressed that the audit findings were serious and could not be ignored.

He said the councils would be required to defend the queries raised against them and present relevant financial documents to justify their spending and accounting practices.

Moreover, the committee expressed concern over reports that several FCT area councils have failed to submit audited financial statements for subsequent years, describing the situation as a breach of statutory requirements.

Lawmakers warned that continued disregard for audit obligations could attract sanctions.

As scrutiny intensifies, governance analysts say the outcome of the legislative probe will be closely watched, particularly in light of ongoing debates about transparency and financial autonomy at the local government level.

The audit report, they argue, has once again underscored the need for stronger oversight mechanisms and stricter enforcement of public finance rules within the FCT area councils.