Suspended AGF to appear before Senate panel today

dimeji akinloye

April 27, 2017 7:17 AM

The Senate committee is said to be expecting Lawal to appear before it by 10am on Thursday, April 27.

Babachir Lawal was suspended over conflict of interest allegations

The suspended Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Mr.

The Senate Ad-Hoc Committee that investigated the N200 million Presidential Initiative on North East (PINE) contracts reportedly summoned Lawal.

Two weeks ago, President Muhammadu Buhari constituted a three-man panel to investigate the SGF.

Buhari on the same day ordered Lawal's suspension pending the outcome of the investigation.

The panel, headed by Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo, is expected to turn in its report within 14 days.

The Senate committee is said to be expecting Lawal to appear before it by 10am on Thursday (today).

The Senator Shehu Sani-led committee had indicted the SGF for breaching relevant provisions of the Public Procurement Act, 2007.

He allegedly violated the Federal Government Financial Rules and Regulations on the award of contracts under PINE.

Reports said Lawal was invited in fulfillment of the principle of fair hearing.

The SGF had complained that committee did not accord him fear hearing before indicting him.

ALSO READ: Buhari tells Senate he can’t sack Babachir Lawal despite fraud allegations

The invitation letter signed by the Ad Hoc Committee clerk, Mr. Barau Bungudu, reads in part:

"You may recall that the Ad-hoc Committee had invited you to appear before it for the second time on Wednesday, 15th March, 2017.

"The Committee has granted your request conveyed in your letter dated 22nd March, 2017 and re-scheduled the meeting. By this letter, I am directed to formally invite you to appear before the Committee on Thursday, 27th April, 2017."

Meanwhile, sources say the Presidency is already shopping for Lawal's replacement.

It was gathered that two ministers, two senators, and four others are top on the list of possible candidates for the SGF position.

dimeji akinloye

Enhance Your Pulse News Experience!

Get rewards worth up to $20 when selected to participate in our exclusive focus group. Your input will help us to make informed decisions that align with your needs and preferences.

I've got feedback!