TheCable

The senate committee on gas has given Wale Edun, minister of finance, a seven-day ultimatum to provide details on the disbursement of N100 billion for buses powered by compressed natural gas (CNG).

In August 2023, the administration of President Bola Tinubu said it would invest N100 billion between that time and March 2024, to acquire 3,000 units of 20-seater buses powered by CNG.

Another N130 billion was budgeted for CNG conversion and electric vehicles in December.

Not much has been heard of the project since December.

In a letter dated January 9 and seen by TheCable on Wednesday, Jarigbe Jarigbe, chair of the senate committee on gas, said his panel is interested in how the bids were opened.

“In particular, the committee is seeking detailed information on the process followed in the award and disbursement of funds to the companies benefiting from this allocation,” the senator wrote.

“I would appreciate insights into the compliance of these processes with the provisions of the Public Procurement Act of 2007.

“Kindly provide documentation and details regarding the companies that received funding, outlining the specific projects or initiatives they are undertaking to promote the use of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) in the country.

“I believe that this information will be invaluable for our committee’s oversight responsibilities and will contribute to ensuring the success and effectiveness of the government’s efforts in promoting alternative energy sources.

“I appreciate your attention on this matter and look forward to receiving the requested information in seven days from the date of receipt.”

Jarigbe said the information should be submitted in soft copy, and 30 sets of hard copy, to the clerk of the committee.