Femi Falana: Demands Accountability For COVID-19 Funds

Femi Falana: Demands Accountability For COVID-19 Funds

Renowned human rights activist and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Femi Falana, stirred controversy at the recent memorial lecture for Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti, urging Nigerians to demand transparency regarding the substantial funds allocated for COVID-19 relief…..READ ALSO Femi Falana, Covid-19 Fund And The Art Of Misrepresentation By Temitope Ajayi 

In a fiery rebuttal to accusations of misrepresentation, Falana doubled down on his call for accountability.

Following his assertion that N135 billion was distributed to state governments to combat the pandemic, a rejoinder from Mr. Temitope Ajayi, a Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, accused Falana of distorting facts. However, Ajayi inadvertently confirmed the disbursement while attempting to clarify the government’s actions.

Falana’s scrutiny extended to the handling of a $750 million World Bank loan, of which only $300 million has been disbursed, leaving $400 million unaccounted for.

He proposed redirecting the remaining funds towards hospital rehabilitation—a move he believes would benefit the nation’s healthcare infrastructure.

Notably absent from Ajayi’s response was any mention of a separate $3.4 billion obtained from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to combat COVID-19. Falana highlighted discrepancies in the handling of these funds, citing instances where financial statements vanished and funds were diverted.

In light of mounting concerns over Nigeria’s escalating debt burden and persistent socio-economic challenges, Falana emphasized the importance of holding authorities accountable for the allocation and utilization of public funds.

Undeterred by personal attacks, he reaffirmed his commitment to advocating for transparency and accountability in governance—a stance he considers essential for safeguarding the public interest.