FOR IMMEDIATE PUBLICATION
HDHTAN Taraba State Executive Reaffirms Suspension of Isa Nawe, Insists on Independent Audit
The State Executive Council of the Heavy Duty and Haulage Transport Association of Nigeria (HDHTAN), Taraba State Chapter, has reaffirmed the suspension of Mr. Isa Nawe from office as Chairman of the Association, insisting that he remains suspended pending the outcome of investigations into serious allegations of financial misappropriation and abuse of office.
The Executive Council noted with concern a recent publication credited to Mr. Nawe in which he dismissed allegations of diversion of approximately ₦28,000,000 belonging to the Association and described the claims as malicious and unfounded. The Council described his response as a deliberate attempt to mislead members of the Association and the general public.
For the avoidance of doubt, the State Executive maintains that Mr. Isa Nawe stands suspended and has ceased to act or represent the Association in any capacity within Taraba State. Any claim to the contrary is misleading and does not reflect the position of the duly constituted State Executive Council.
While Mr. Nawe has publicly declared that the Association’s financial records are properly documented and transparently managed, the Executive Council challenges him to demonstrate that transparency by submitting himself to an immediate internal and independent audit of the Association’s financial records. If, as he claims, his hands are clean, he should have no hesitation in subjecting the accounts to an open and credible probe.
The Executive Council further reiterates that it is in possession of documentary evidence relating to alleged unauthorized collections, including the printing and use of questionable receipts purportedly presented as federal government revenue documents, as well as alleged deposits of such proceeds into personal bank accounts.
In addition, Mr. Nawe is hereby publicly challenged to provide verifiable details of any federal or state government accounts into which he claims revenues were remitted. The question remains: Can he produce official government account details and evidence of remittances as required of any lawful revenue-collecting body?
The Council also distances itself from allegations that the Association operates without clear legal mandate or engages in acts of harassment, extortion, or intimidation of truck drivers, agro-chemical dealers, or other stakeholders. Such allegations, if proven, undermine the integrity and purpose of the Association and must be thoroughly investigated.
While the National Leadership may have issued statements recognizing Mr. Nawe, the issues raised at the state level concerning financial accountability and operational conduct remain unresolved. Recognition by any body does not exempt any officer from accountability, due process, or internal disciplinary procedures as provided for under the Association’s constitution.
The State Executive Council therefore calls on:
All members of the Association to remain calm and law-abiding.
Relevant security agencies to ensure neutrality and allow due process to take its course.
The general public and stakeholders to refrain from entering into any financial or official transactions with Mr. Isa Nawe in the name of HDHTAN pending the conclusion of investigations.
The Executive Council reiterates its commitment to transparency, accountability, and the protection of the interests of genuine truck owners and operators in Taraba State. The integrity of the Association must be preserved above personal interests.
Mr. Isa Nawe remains suspended until he clears himself through a transparent and independent audit process.
Signed,
State Executive Council
Heavy Duty and Haulage Transport Association of Nigeria (HDHTAN)
Taraba State Chapter
