The lawmaker representing Delta North Senatorial District, Ned Nwoko, has firmly rejected reports alleging new claims over outstanding consultancy fees tied to his company, describing the publications as false, misleading, and a deliberate distortion of facts already settled by investigative authorities.
In a strongly worded statement released by his media team in Abuja on Friday, the senator addressed what he characterized as a coordinated attempt to revive a long-concluded controversy surrounding the Paris Club refund. According to him, the resurfacing of the issue in sections of the media is not only unfounded but also aimed at damaging his reputation and misleading the public.
At the heart of the controversy is the long-running dispute over consultancy services linked to the recovery of funds owed to Nigerian states under the Paris Club arrangements. Over the years, the matter has attracted intense scrutiny, legal battles, and multiple investigations, making it one of the most contentious financial issues in Nigeria’s recent political history.
However, Senator Nwoko insists that the matter has been exhaustively examined and resolved by the appropriate authorities, particularly the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission. He emphasized that no fewer than four separate reviews conducted by the anti-graft agency arrived at consistent conclusions, affirming that contractual obligations were fulfilled.
“The facts are clear and have not changed,” the statement read. “Multiple investigations by the EFCC confirmed that the consultancy work in question was duly executed. Any claims suggesting otherwise are not only inaccurate but intentionally misleading.”
The senator further explained that while some financial aspects of the agreements may still be subject to ongoing contractual arrangements, these do not constitute fresh claims or irregularities. Instead, they fall within the framework of legally binding agreements that have been acknowledged by all parties involved.
He accused certain individuals and media platforms of recycling outdated narratives in a bid to create confusion and stir public sentiment. According to him, such actions undermine the integrity of established institutions and disregard the conclusions already reached by investigative bodies.
Observers note that the Paris Club refund saga has long been a flashpoint in Nigeria’s governance discourse, involving disputes over fees paid to consultants who facilitated negotiations and recoveries on behalf of state governments. While some stakeholders have questioned the scale and legitimacy of such payments, others maintain that the consultants played a critical role in securing the refunds.
For Senator Nwoko, the renewed attention to the issue appears both unnecessary and politically motivated. He maintained that all his dealings were conducted within the bounds of the law and that he remains confident in the findings of the EFCC and other relevant authorities.
The statement concluded with a call for responsible journalism and adherence to verified facts, urging media organizations to avoid amplifying unsubstantiated claims. It also reassured constituents and the general public that the senator remains focused on his legislative duties and commitment to national development.
As the debate continues to ripple through political and media circles, the senator’s response signals a firm attempt to close the chapter on a controversy he believes has already been settled once and for all.
