The Federal Ministry of Finance has strongly denied allegations that it awarded contracts amounting to N13 billion without due process, describing the claims as “false, malicious, and designed to distract from critical economic reforms.”
The rebuttal followed an online publication not in the National Update, which alleged that the Ministry, under the leadership of Minister Wale Edun and Permanent Secretary Lydia Shehu Jafiya, approved multiple high-value contracts between February and June 2024 in violation of procurement laws.
In an official statement issued on Sunday, the Ministry stated that all contracts within the specified timeframe—including those linked to the high-profile Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas (Pi-CNG)—were awarded in strict accordance with the Public Procurement Act and other regulatory frameworks.
Director of Informationa and Public Relations Muhammed Manga in a statement indicated that,
“These claims are not only unfounded but also malicious, aimed at tarnishing the reputation of the Honourable Minister and Permanent Secretary,” the statement read. “All contracts were processed transparently and legally.”
The Ministry emphasized its commitment to transparency and accountability, noting that recent economic interventions under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu are already showing signs of stabilizing key sectors.
Significantly, the Ministry did not just issue a denial—it also signaled its readiness to fight back.
“We urge the media to verify their information before publication. The Ministry will not hesitate to take legal action against any individual or organization that disseminates false and defamatory reports.”
While the allegations have generated intense social media chatter and calls for clarity, many observers see the Ministry’s swift and detailed response as an attempt to reclaim public trust and fend off political distraction amid ongoing economic reforms.
The development has also reignited debate over transparency in public procurement and the role of digital media in shaping public perception.
For now, the ball may be in the court of the online newspaper, will it stand by its report or face legal consequences?