Centre Clarifies Allegation Against NLTF

The Centre for Peace, Transparency and Accountability (CPTA) has clarified allegations against the National Lottery Trust Fund (NLTF) on its internally generated revenue spending.

The executive director, CPTA, Patrick Ogheneyero, made the clarification at a press briefing in Abuja yesterday.

Recently, a committee in the House of Representatives accused (NLTF) of alleged irregularities in spending.

Ogheneyero stated that the claims centered on the agency’s purported failure to account for N6 billion (IGR) in 2022 and unauthorised spending of N2.0 billion in 2023.

He said the actions of NLTF were legally grounded and aligned with the mandate established by law.

Ogheneyero said the projects span various crucial sectors, including sports development, education, social services, public welfare and disaster management.

He said the agency highlighted the oversight and approval process involving the president and the board of trustees in project selection, underlining the legitimacy of their endeavors.

“The NLTF refers to the Act that formed it, particularly highlighting section 40, which grants the Fund the authority to utilize its IGR for projects aimed at enhancing the lives and welfare of Nigerian citizens.

“Critically, the NLTF emphasises that all its actions are in accordance with legal provisions and the Act’s guidelines, making its spending justifiable and directed towards the betterment of the Nigerian populace.

“Moreover, concerns are raised about the house committee’s lack of thorough understanding of the NLTF’s legal framework before making accusations,” he said.

He said the center had stepped in, advocating for a fair and informed approach to this issue.

Ogheneyero urged the committee to revisit the Act that established the NLTF and consider amending provisions to clarify the fund’s spending authority.

He urged the committee to conduct a comprehensive investigation into whether the NLTF’s spending aligns with the areas outlined in the Act, ensuring adherence to established guidelines.

He added that a significant portion of NLTF’s capital appropriations were directed towards construction and other intervention projects, notably those associated with members of the national assembly.