The six Area Council Chairmen of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) did not show up for a hearing about financial issues totaling around N100 billion. They had requested to appear on September 22, 2026, but neither they nor their representatives attended.
In response, the House of Representatives Public Accounts Committee has issued a final notice. They have ordered the Directors of Personnel Management and Finance, along with Heads of Audit from the six councils, to appear on October 14, 2026. Failure to comply could lead to penalties under relevant service rules.
The audit questions stem from the Annual Audit Report by the Auditor-General for the six FCT Area Councils for the year ending December 31, 2021. The councils involved are Abaji, Abuja Municipal Area Council, Bwari, Gwagwalada, Kuje, and Kwali.
The report revealed that the councils have outstanding debts of about N7.65 billion. This includes unpaid pension contributions, taxes, and obligations to contractors. The breakdown shows that Abuja Municipal Area Council owes the most, with N2.19 billion, followed by Bwari and Kwali.
Additionally, the audit criticized the councils for not keeping accurate records of their assets. For example, Gwagwalada Area Council had non-current assets worth N336 million that were not properly documented.
Concerns were also raised about N24.87 billion spent by the councils on salaries and other expenses in 2021. The committee is asking for explanations and documentation regarding these expenditures, especially for capital projects.
Bamidele Salam, the Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee, expressed frustration over the councils’ repeated failures to respond to requests for information. He emphasized that public funds must be managed transparently and that those responsible for any wrongdoing will face consequences.
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