Okonjo-Iwaela Reacts to Spending $2.1 Billion without Authorisation

Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iwaela, the former coordinating minister for the economy and minister of finance under ex-president Goodluck Jonathan, has reacted to reports that she spent $2.1 billion from the Excess Crude Account without authorisation. 

VANGUARD reports that Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iwaela, on Tuesday, June 30, through her Media Adviser, Paul Nwabuikwu, in Abuja, described as “false and malicious,” the allegation by Edo State Governor, Adams Oshiomhole, that she spent $2.1 billion from the Excess Crude Account (ECA) without authorisation. She said there was no unauthorised spending from the ECA under her watch in the Finance Ministry. 

Buhari’s Cabinet: Joda Committee Recommends 19 Senior Ministers, 17 Ministers Of State

Amid growing public concern over the structure and membership of the cabinet of President Muhammadu Buhari, indications have emerged that the President may operate with just 19 ministries.

The Ahmed Joda-led Transition Committee has recommended a “small government” which entails pruning the number of ministers from 42 to 19, The Cable newspaper reported Friday, quoting the 800-page document submitted by the committee.

Mr. Joda submitted the report to Mr. Buhari last Friday.