SAN FRANCISCO, March 24, (THEWILL) – The Ministry of Finance has revealed that it has so far received 2,351 tips from whistle-blowers, on cases bordering on embezzlement of government funds, looting of assets, contract inflation, among others.
This was contained in a statement signed by Festus Akanbi, the Special Adviser, Media to the Minister of Finance, Kemi Adeosun, declaring that the tips came via text messages, calls, email and forms filled on the ministry’s website.
“We have received 95 feedbacks through our website, www.whistle.finance.gov.ng, 1,550 tips came through calls on 09098067946 and SMS, 412,” Akanbi said.
“Also, 194 people sent us emails on whistle@finance.gov.ng).
“Out of the 2,351 tips, the office is currently following up on 154, which it deemed actionable.
“Some of the tips include: contract inflation and conversion of government assets to personal use, ghost workers, payment of unapproved funds and embezzlement of salaries of terminated personnel.
“Also, improper reduction of financial penalties, diversion of funds meant for distribution to a particular group of people, especially farmers and diversion of funds to personal commercial bank accounts to earn interest.
“Furthermore, we are following up on cases of non-remittance of pension and NHIS deductions, failure to Implement projects for which funds have been provided, embezzlement of funds received from donor agencies and violation of TSA regulations by keeping funds in commercial banks.
“We are also looking into violations of FIRS (VAT) regulation by adjusting value added tax payment, non-procurement of equipment required for aviation safety, money laundering and diversion of funds meant for approved projects.”
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