The House of Representatives Ad-hoc Committee investigating Agricultural Subsidies, Intervention Funds, Aids and Grants Programmes has warned that it may impose sanctions on the Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, the Minister of Agriculture, Senator Abubakar Kyari, and the Auditor-General of the Federation, Shaakaa Chira, if they fail to honour its investigation.
The committee, chaired by Hon. Jamo Aminu, summoned the trio over the expenditure of funds released for agricultural programmes between 2015 and 2025. The warning was issued at the committee’s resumed hearing in Abuja on Tuesday, following what lawmakers described as unsatisfactory documentation and gaps in accountability records submitted to the panel.
Aminu expressed concern over the Office of the Auditor-General of the Federation’s inability to provide audit reports for several agricultural subsidy and intervention programmes within the period under review. He said the absence of comprehensive audit records undermines efforts to ensure transparency and accountability in public spending.
According to the committee chairman, the investigation forms part of the House’s broader effort to scrutinise government expenditure in the agricultural sector, especially against the backdrop of food insecurity, rising food prices, and lingering questions about the effectiveness of past intervention programmes.
Aminu noted that the panel expects detailed audit documentation that will allow lawmakers to properly track disbursements, utilisation, and outcomes of the various schemes introduced to boost food production, support farmers, and strengthen national food security.
The committee said it would not hesitate to invoke its powers if relevant officials fail to cooperate fully with the investigation.
