The Delta State House of Assembly has commenced a comprehensive review of the 2025 Auditor-General’s Report on the Accounts of the Delta State Government, with Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) expected to defend and clarify issues raised in the audit findings.
The exercise, being conducted by the House Committee on Public Accounts, is aimed at strengthening fiscal accountability, transparency and effective management of public resources across government institutions.
Speaking at the inauguration of the review session at the Assembly Complex in Asaba, Chairman of the Committee, Hon. James Augoye, Ph.D., said the exercise forms part of the legislature’s constitutional mandate to oversee government finances and ensure compliance with established financial regulations.
According to him, the annual review process is designed to promote responsible governance by examining how public funds are managed and ensuring that all financial transactions are properly accounted for.
“This is a statutory responsibility of the committee and a critical component of legislative oversight. The exercise is intended to reinforce accountability, transparency and fiscal prudence in public service.
“It should not be viewed as a witch-hunt but as a professional process aimed at improving financial governance and adherence to due process,” Augoye stated.
He explained that the committee would thoroughly assess observations contained in the Auditor-General’s report for the financial year ending December 31, 2025, and compare them with records and submissions from affected MDAs.
The lawmaker noted that the review would focus on ensuring accuracy, consistency and compliance with existing financial laws and guidelines, while also identifying areas requiring corrective action.
Augoye, alongside committee members Hon. Spencer Owhofa, Hon. Bridget Anyafulu, Hon. Frank Esenwa and Hon. Bernard Odior, urged accounting officers and management of government agencies to embrace global best practices in public sector financial administration.
“Our goal is to ensure that every issue highlighted in the Auditor-General’s report is adequately addressed by the concerned agencies.
“This process is essential in deepening public trust and confidence in the management of government finances,” he said.
In his contribution, Acting Auditor-General of the State, Mr. Matthew Emasogbe, pledged the full support of his office to the committee throughout the review exercise.
Emasogbe disclosed that the audit report was prepared in accordance with statutory provisions and professional auditing standards, expressing optimism that the review would enhance accountability within the public sector.
“We have ensured that the financial activities of the Delta State Government for the 2025 fiscal year were comprehensively captured in the report. Our office remains committed to providing all necessary assistance to facilitate a successful and seamless review process,” he said.
The outcome of the exercise is expected to guide the House in making recommendations aimed at improving financial discipline, enhancing transparency and promoting good governance across the state’s public institutions.
