The Coalition for Transparency, Equity, and Justice (CTEJ) has urged the Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy to address allegations of financial mismanagement under Minister Hannatu Musa Musawa.
Citing the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act, the CSO formally requested an explanation regarding the N4 billion reportedly allocated for office rent. The group claims that N3 billion was allegedly paid in installments to a landlord without Federal Executive Council (FEC) approval, with the office located along ICPC Road, Abuja.
Additionally, the coalition questioned:
The minister’s appointment of 50 new aides, calling it excessive.
The dismissal of experienced officials within the ministry.
The appointment of Ahmed Sodangi as Director-General of the National Gallery of Arts (NGA), arguing that his past involvement in Bank of Industry-sponsored exhibitions should not justify his selection.
In response, the Ministry of Art dismissed the allegations. Dr. Nneka Ikem-Anibeze, Special Assistant for Media and Publicity, stated that the ministry operates from the Federal Secretariat and has not rented any office space. She also refuted claims of family ties between Minister Musawa and Sodangi and denied the hiring of 50 aides.
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