Procurement Observation and Advocacy Initiative has written the House of Representatives Committee on the proposed amendment to the Public Procurement Act.
The group in its letter noted that three areas of concern in the amendment – increase of contracts mobilisation fee from 15 to 50 percent, removal of the Finance minister as chair of Public Procurement Council, and inclusion National Defense and Security Agencies in procurement processes.
On increment in contracts mobilisation fee, the group stated that the recommendation to give up to 50% mobilization fees will encourage corruption.
‘’To mobilize Contractor 50% fees in advance of his or her execution of the project is a clear way of encouraging corruption. This cannot in our view stop or reduce instances of project abandonment.’’
In its position on the proposal to remove the Minister of Finance and replace with a politician, the group maintained the move is ‘irrational and open abuse of the exalted Office of the Executive President and an attempt to ridicule the fight against corruption.’
Hinged on the fact that they are Heads of Ministries, the group propose that the following should be removed as permanent members of the Council.
a. The Attorney General and Minister of Justice
b. The Secretary to the Government of the Federation
c. The Chief Economic Adviser to the President
d. The Minister of Education
e. The Minister of Commerce and Industry
