By Yahaya Yusuf Kumo
The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) has dismissed allegations of a N3.2 billion contract scandal, labeling them as "false" and "misleading."
According to Ishaku Kigbu, Head of Information and Public Relations, the allegations stem from a petition regarding the parastatals Tender Board's decision to set aside uncompleted contract processes.
The management and staff of the NCPWD have been inundated with calls based on a syndicated false story that the commission was involved in a N3.2 billion contract scandal. Ordinarily, the commission would have disregarded these lies, but doing so would allow the misleading narrative to gain traction among the unsuspecting public.
Kigbu added that, in response to the petition, it is imperative to provide clarity and context to the issues surrounding the decision. When Hon. Ayuba Gufwan assumed office in August, he convened his first management meeting to gain insights into the commission's operations and ongoing projects
Background
The commission's Executive Secretary, Hon. Ayuba Gufwan, assumed office in August and convened a management meeting to review ongoing projects. The meeting revealed irregularities in contract approvals and finalizations after the removal of former Executive Secretary James David Laluh.
Key Findings
1. Contracts were processed without proper adherence to due process and contractual agreements.
2. The parastatals Tender Board (PTB) revoked the contracts due to lack of transparency and integrity.
3. A new procurement process was initiated in line with extant laws and regulations.
Contractor's Allegations
Contractors, including Taj Print Media Nigeria Ltd, petitioned the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), and the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development.
Commission's Response
The NCPWD denied any binding legal agreements with contractors and challenged them to produce a legal document indicating any binding agreement.
Investigation
The commission reported the continuous defamation of the present Executive Secretary's character to the appropriate government apparatus.
Conclusion
The NCPWD remains committed to transparency, accountability, and excellence in service delivery, undistracted by elements working against reforms
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