The anti-corruption organisation, in a document signed by its Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju and sent to Prof Isa Pantami, requested clarification on the procurement process that led the Federal Executive Council (FEC) to approve the allocation of N24.2 billion to the project.
The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA) has called on the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Prof Isa Pantami, to explain the procurement process of the N24.2 billion internet facility project.
The anti-corruption organisation, in a document signed by its Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju and sent to Prof Isa Pantami, requested clarification on the procurement process that led the Federal Executive Council (FEC) to approve the allocation of N24.2 billion to the project.
The funds are intended for the provision of internet facilities at 20 airports, educational institutions, and markets across Nigeria.
In the document, HEDA recalled that the information on the allocation of funds was disclosed by the minister and reported in the news on March 29, 2023.
HEDA cited Sections 2, 3, and 4 of the Freedom of Information (FoI) Act of 2011 in requesting detailed information about the procurement process leading to the FEC's approval.
The organisation sought to understand whether the project was covered in the approved 2023 budget and the specific budget line it falls under. It also requested information on the approved contractors responsible for implementing the contracts, including their identities and the terms of the contract.
The civil society group also stressed that it looks forward to receiving the requested information within seven days of the receipt of its letter. The organisation expressed its willingness to provide further clarification if necessary.
As an anti-corruption organisation in Nigeria, HEDA has consistently advocated for transparency, accountability, and good governance in public spending.
Its demand for an explanation of the procurement process of the N24.2 billion internet facility project highlights its commitment to ensuring that public funds are used judiciously and in accordance with due process.