Auditor General Refutes “Ghost Vouchers” Claims, Clarifies Audit Position

By Mubarak Aliyu Kobi

The Auditor General of Bauchi State, Alhaji Ishaku Yankari, has dismissed an online publication alleging the existence of “ghost vouchers,” describing the claim as misleading, inaccurate, and inconsistent with standard audit terminology. He clarified that while the term “ghost payees” is recognized in auditing practice to describe fictitious individuals or entities used for fraudulent payments, “ghost vouchers” is not a known or acceptable audit term.

Speaking on the matter, Yankari explained that the publication misrepresented the contents and intent of his office’s audit report, stressing that the role of auditors is limited to making professional observations and recommendations, not issuing indictments. “As auditors, our responsibility is to observe, report, and advise accordingly; we do not indict individuals,” he stated.

The Auditor General also faulted the publication for wrongly referring to certain officials as “accounting officers,” a statutory designation that primarily applies to Permanent Secretaries of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), alongside other officers specifically designated by law. He noted that positions such as the Chief of Staff to the Government do not fall under the category of accounting officers for MDAs.

Providing further clarification, Yankari revealed that a thorough review of payment records showed that all transactions cited in the audit report were duly budgeted, supported with signed vouchers, and linked to legitimate payees. “Our findings indicate that the payments in question followed due process, with proper documentation and identifiable beneficiaries,” he said.

He specifically refuted suggestions that any payment voucher bore the name of Dr. Aminu Gamawa, describing such implications as unfounded. “No payment voucher carries the name of Dr. Aminu Gamawa, contrary to what has been insinuated in the publication,” the Auditor General emphasized.

On the issue of pension arrears, Yankari acknowledged existing challenges but commended the current administration for taking concrete steps to address them. He disclosed that following a consultant’s report, Governor Bala Abdulkadir Muhammad approved a comprehensive pensioner verification exercise aimed at ensuring transparency and prompt payment of gratuities.

According to him, the verification exercise is progressing smoothly with minimal inconvenience to pensioners, as officials have been directed to reach out directly to beneficiaries. “My staff have visited pensioners in hospitals and at their homes to ensure that no one is left out of the process,” he said.

The Auditor General concluded by expressing appreciation to members of the Bauchi State House of Assembly, particularly relevant committees, for their continued support. He noted that the Assembly has been working within its constitutional powers to address issues raised in audit reports, adding, “I commend the lawmakers for their commitment to accountability and their willingness to act on every report submitted by my office.”