The Niger State House of Assembly on Thursday directed Governor Abubakar Bello to probe the immediate past administration of Babangida Aliyu..

The House made the resolution following a motion moved by Mr. Mohammed Haruna (APC-Bida II) in Minna.

Haruna said 22 activities of the past administration, including the operation of the Local Government Joint Account, Ward Development Projects, Bonds and the Minna Airport project, should or the probe.

He said the financial recklessness of the past administration had impeded the speedy development of the state‎.

“If there are relevant provisions of our laws that empower us to check and correct the defects and not allow business as usual, then, our refusal to exercise such powers may be tantamount to compromising our cardinal responsibilities‎ as representatives of our constituencies.”

Another lawmaker, Mr. Abdullahi Mamagi (APC-Gbako), said he was not satisfied with the manner the state government was handling probe of the past administration.

“We are not trying to witch-hunt anyone. The issue at stake is that the resources of over four million people in the state have been pilfered, the resources are not meant for them, they should refund it.”

The House, which unanimously adopted the motion, directed the Clerk of the house to forward the resolution to the state governor‎.

Reacting to the resolution, Mr. Israel Ebije, the spokesperson of the former Governor, said the past administration would not shy away from any probe.

“While the former Gov. Babangida Aliyu is not afraid of probe, records are available for all to see that he has served the state meritoriously.

“He deserves to be commended for his people based programmes and projects.”

He called on the assembly to focus on more pressing issues affecting the people instead of embarking on a wild goose chase.

“There are other pressing issues that need the attention of the assembly beyond issuing an order that will amount to playing to the gallery.” (NAN)

•Photo shows Babangida Aliyu