The Plateau State House of Assembly has received the 2025 Audited Financial Statements of the State Government and the 17 Local Government Councils from the Office of the Auditor-General for the State and the Auditor-General for Local Governments, respectively.
The presentation was made during plenary and laid before the House by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Naanlong Daniel Gapyil in strict compliance with constitutional provisions on accountability in public finance.
In laying the documents, the Speaker stated that the submission was made pursuant to Section 125(2) and Section 125(5) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 as amended,
Section 125(2) requires the Auditor-General for the State to submit audited accounts of the State Government, while Section 125(5) requires the Auditor-General for Local Governments to submit audited accounts of all Local Government Councils in the State to the House of Assembly.
He further referenced Sections 36(1–3) and 22(1)(c) of the Plateau State Audit Law, 2021, which mandated the House to undertake detailed examination of all audit reports to ensure transparency, accountability and value for money in public expenditure.
Following the presentation, the House, in exercise of its constitutional oversight powers under Sections 128 and 129 of the 1999 Constitution as amended, resolved to commit both the State and the 17 Local Government Councils’ Audited Financial Statements to the House Committee on Public Accounts and Petitions for thorough consideration.
The Committee is mandated to undertake the following responsibilities,
examine all financial records to ensure compliance with approved estimates, financial regulations and due process and identify cases of financial irregularities, misapplication, or waste of public funds at both State and Local Government levels.
Also invite relevant Accounting Officers and stakeholders for explanations where necessary,Submit a comprehensive report with recommendations to the House for further legislative action,and Commendation of the Executive.
The House used the opportunity to comment Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang for his unwavering commitment to the principles of good governance, transparency and accountability.
Speaking the speaker Rt.Hon.Naanlong Daniel noted that the prompt submission of the audited financial statements for both the State and Local Governments is a clear demonstration of the Governor’s integrity and utmost respect for the rule of law.
Rt. Hon. Naanlong Daniel stated that by submitting the reports as and when due, the Governor has set a standard for fiscal discipline and has shown that his administration has nothing to hide.
According to him,he reflects a government that is open to scrutiny and is determined to ensure that public resources are managed in the best interest of the people of Plateau State.
He emphasized that effective oversight of public accounts is a cardinal responsibility of the Legislature and a critical tool in promoting prudent management of resources.
He noted that the exercise will ensure that funds appropriated for the people of Plateau State, at both State and Local Government levels, are properly utilized for development.
Rt. Hon. Naanlong Daniel commended Members for their dedication and urged the Committee on Public Accounts and Petitions to discharge its assignment with fairness, diligence and strict adherence to the rule of law.
He reaffirming the 10th Assembly’s resolve to continue to work in synergy with the Executive under the able leadership of the Governor to deepen transparency, accountability and good governance for the overall development and prosperity of Plateau State.
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