House of Reps summon Okonjo-Iweala, Maina, Malami, others over pension scam

The House of Representatives has given former Minister of Finance  Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala four working days to appear before its committee investigating pension reform.

Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor Godwin Emefiele was also expected to appear before the lawmakers for explanations on the alleged stealing of the funds.

The Anayo Nnebe-led ad hoc  committee investigating the activities of the Presidential Task Force on Pensions Reforms from 2010 to the time of its dissolution and any other successor agency said no representation would be allowed.

Nnebe said those invited must appear in person.

Also to appear are former Chairman of the defunct Presidential Task Force on Pension Reforms Abdulraheed Maina, former members of the Task Force, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Boss Mustapha, Head of Service of the Federation Winifred Eyo-Ita, former Head of Service, Stephen Orosanye and the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) Abubakar Malami.

Others are Inspector General of Police (IGP) Ibrahim Idris, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and relevant stakeholders in the pension sector.

At the opening of the public hearing yesterday, Nnebe said the physical appearance of those summoned was purely on an account of accountability and thoroughness, adding that the  committee would not entertain any representation.

He said: “The issue is very simple. We have heard from PTAD and the Legislative Watch. Former minister, Ngozi Okonjo-Iwela, all the member of the defunct Presidential committee, EFCC, ICPC, Attorney-General, Governor of Central Bank, the IGP, and all the relevant stakeholders are invited by this committee.

“On Monday, March 12, 2018, we expect that in the next adjournment, all stakeholders would be here.”

The Speaker Yakubu Dogara, who was represented by the Chief Whip of the House, Pally Iriase, said: “The subject of this investigation has had a checkered history and has become very controversial. I understand that the Senate is also conducting investigations on the subject.

“As a bicameral legislature, our constituents have inundated us with complaints that gave rise to the resolution of the House. Where possible, you should compare notes with the Senate while maintaining the independence of your investigations.”