1 TITLE PAGE THE IMPACT OF INTERNAL CONTROL SYSTEM ON REVENUE GENERATION: (A CASE STUDY OF POWER HOLDING COMPANY OF NIGERIA (P.H.C.N) OKPARA AVENUE ENUGU) BY OFOZIE ONYEKA C. ACC/2007/330 FACULTY OF MANAGEMENT AND SOCIAL SCIENCES CARITAS UNIVERSITY AMORJI-NIKE, ENUGU STATE. IN PARTIAL FULFILMENT OF THE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE AWARD OF BACHELOR OF SCIENCE (B.Sc) DEGREE IN ACCOUNTING. AUGUST, 2010. 2 CERTIFICATION This research work has been read, approved and accepted as having met the requirements and regulations governing the preparation and presentation of project in the Department of Accountancy, Faculty of Management and Social Sciences, Caritas University, Amorji-Nike, Enugu for the award of a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) degree in Accounting. MR. AGU C. DATE Project Supervisor MR. UGWU COLLINS DATE Head of Department External Supervisor DATE 3 DEDICATION The research project is dedicated to God Almighty, the creator of heaven and earth. I also dedicate this piece of work to my wonderful and enduring parents, Chief and Mrs E.I Ofozie. 4 ACKNOWLEDGMENT My sincere appreciation goes to Almighty God, the maker of all impossibilities possible and for giving me the knowledge and strength to produce this project work. A big thanks to the members of my great family: especially my Dad, Chief E. I. Ofozie, my Mum Mrs Stella Ofozie, my sibling: my Brother Ifechukwu, my Sister Juliet and to my cousins: Chinelo, Chi-Chi, Ifeyinwa, Emeka and others not mentioned. To my Uncle,s and Aunties Mr and Mrs P. U. Obiefuna and to numerous member of my family not mentioned for their financial support, advice and encouragement. In particular, i would like to thank my colleagues and friends, among them are;Chioma, Ngozi, Chizoba, Stephanie, Christopher, Stella and so many others. I appreciate the efforts and positive criticism and necessary correction of my capable and intellectual supervisor 5 in of Mr. Agu C. I. who took his time to ensure compliance and orderliness in my work and I also wish to thank my H.O.D, Mr. Ugwu C. and my other lecturers, Mr. Ovute F., Mr. Nsoke P., Mr. Enekwe C., Dr. Mrs Eyisi S. for their immense contribution from the begining to end, and also to my roommates (St Mary hostel) for encourangement. May God bless you all. their support and 6 LIST OF FIGURES Figure 2.1 Classifications of Departments Goals and Objective Figure 2.2 Classification of Business objectives and related risks 7 ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to evaluate the internal control system in operation at power holding company of Nigeria Plc in Enugu State with a view to knowing its impact on revenue generation in the state. A sample of 40 was selected for the study randomly. The questionnaires were used in gathering the primary data while secondary data were collected from the work of others in the form of literature review. The data collected were analyzed using the chi-square (x2) as the statistical tool to determine the valuation of the hypothesis. The findings concluded that weak internal control system encourages collusion fraud loss of revenue, embezzlement and computation. This have always impeded the company’s ability to effectively supply electricity to customers and there from generate revenue. Internal audit system ensures operations compliance with set policies, promoting accuracy and reliability of transactions recording. In addition, effective internal control system ensure effective recommends the remodeling of the company’s internal control system and strengthening of the investigating unit. The components sectors of the present corporate Power Holding Company of Nigeria PLC should be unbundled into separate distinct independent transmission, entities distribution and that handle marketing. generation, It further 8 recommends that prepaid meters should be seen as an alternative to further accumulate debts. TABLE OF CONTENTS Title page i Certification ii Dedication iii Acknowledgement iv List of figures v Abstract vi Table of contents CHAPTER ONE: vii INTRODUCTION 1.0 Background Of The Study 1 1.1 Statement Of Problem 6 1.2 Objective Of The Study 8 1.3 Significance Of The Study 8 1.4 Scope and Limitation Of The Study 9 1.5 Research Hypothesis 10 1.6 Research Questions 11 1.7 Historical Background of Power Holding Company of Nigeria 12 9 1.8 Definition of Terms 14 CHAPTER TWO: REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE 2.1 What is Revenue? 17 2.2 What is Internal Control System 18 2.3 Objectives of Internal Control System 20 2.4 Types of Internal Control System 21 2.5 Components of Internal Control System 23 2.6 Functions of Internal Control System 56 2.7 Roles and Responsibilities. 58 2.8 Internal Control System And The Auditors 62 2.9 Operation Of Internal Control System At Power Holding Company Of Nigeria 2.10 Limitation Of Internal Control System 64 71 CHAPTER THREE RESEARCH METHODOLOGY 1.1 Research Design 73 1.2 Sources Of Data 74 1.3 Population Of The Study 75 1.4 Sample Size 75 10 1.5 Description Of Questionnaire 76 1.6 Method of Data Analysis 76 1.7 Statistical Test For Hypothesis 77 CHAPTER FOUR DATA PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS AND INTERPRTATION 4.1 Data Analysis and Interpretation 78 4.2 Test Of Hypothesis 84 4.2.1 Hypothesis One 84 4.2.2 Hypothesis Two 86 CHAPTER FIVE SUMMARY OF FINDINGS, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION 5.1 Summary Of Findings 88 5.2 Conclusion 89 5.3 Recommendation 90 5.4 Suggestions For Further Investigation 91 Bibliography 92 Appendices 96 11 CHAPTER ONE INTRODUCTION 1.0. BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY Every organization has a purpose, which includes making some product and rendering some services at a price. For normal operations of the business organization, it is the product or services of the firm that cause cash receipts (revenue) to flow into the firm. Revenue is associated with products or service of a firm as source of expected cash receipts. Revenue is an event; an increase that applies definitely to value that is monetary. This increase occurs because the firm undertakes certain activities or there is any performance by the firm. Revenue therefore refers to the monetary event of asset valves increasing in the firm due to the physical event of production or sales of the firms’ products or services. In Kam (1987:237), Financial Accounting Standard Board(FASB) defines revenue as inflows or other enhancements of assets of an entity or settlements of its 12 liabilities (or combination of both) during a period from delivery or producing goods, rendering service or other activities that constitutes the entity’s ongoing major or central operations. In addition, Hongreen et al (2002:568) described revenue as inflows of asset (almost always cash or accounts receivables) received for products or services provided to customers. On the basis of the above, National Electric Power Authority now Power Holding Company of Nigeria is a government almost total owned public monopoly in utility establishment generating, enjoying transmitting and delivering electricity to all homes and businesses in Nigeria. According to the establishments customer service chartered (2004), her mission as a service industry is to satisfactorily meet customers electricity demand in the most cost effective manner using proven technology and well motivated customer friendly work force with adequate consideration for the environment. Her goals include: I. To continuously improve her service to her customer. 13 II. To realize full payment for timely accurate and complete billing of electricity delivered. III. Institutionalise business and commercial orientation among the work force. IV. Gradually aiming at closing the gap between demand and supply by upgrading and expanding, generating, transmission and distribution of infrastructure. V. To improve skills and motivation of staff. To achieve the above mission and goals, the management of the establishment must adopt measures to ensure that available resources are prudently used to obtain valve for money from resources allocated to them. Management in turn should generate operational data with which they evaluate the efficiency and effectiveness of their operation. It is fundament aspect of management stewardship responsibility to provide interested parties with reasonable assurance that their organisation is effectively controlled and that the accounting data it receives on a timely basis are accurate and dependable. 14 Developing a strong system of internal control provides this assurance. Thus internal control is defined as the whole system of control, financial and otherwise established by the management in order to carry on the business of the enterprise in an orderly and efficient manner to ensure adherence to management policies safeguard the assets and secure as far as possible the completeness and accuracy of the records. In addition the American institute of Certified Public Accountants in 1949 defined internal control as comprising the plan of organisation and all the coordinate methods and measures adopted within a business (or non profit making body) to safeguard its assets, check the accuracy and reliability of its accounting data promote operational efficiency and encourage adherence to prescribed managerial policies. A ‘system’ of internal control extends beyond those matters which relate directly to the functions of the accounting and financial department. 15 However, it is an established fact that all the business units and service centre of power holding company of Nigerian plc in Enugu state are often plagued by accounting and administrative control problems as it affect revenue generation and other assets. As a result the establishment revenue base has assumed a downward trend. It has also been shown that despite considerable investment, public service delivery by the establishment is widely perceived to be unsatisfactory and deteriorating from bad to worse. The complete dependence on capital grants allocation from government is also known. What is not known is the degree to which internal control weaknesses and reduced allocation from government contribute to the problem. The incidence of internal control weaknesses unsatisfactory and deteriorating service delivery have the undesired effect of not only weakening the establishment’s ability to provide electricity supply effectively, but also encourages collusion, fraud, asset conversion, genuine and deliberate mistakes, corruption, lack of transparency and accountability for 16 revenue collection and accountability for revenue collection and other assets. For the enhancement of the attainment of the mission and goals, it is therefore necessary that these hindrances be removed. It is against the above background and evaluate that this research carried out to examine and evaluate the internal control system in operation at holding company of Nigeria in Enugu state. 1.1 STATEMENT OF PROBLEM The incidence of internal control weaknesses, unsatisfactory and deteriorating service delivery have the undesired effect of not only weakening the company’s ability to effectively provide electricity supply but also encourages collusion, fraud, embezzlements, loss of cash (revenue), assets conversion genuine and deliberate mistakes, corruption, lack of transparency and accountability for revenue collection and other assets. Despite considerable investment, public service delivery is unsatisfactory and degenerating. The company is not able to break even and sustain itself from the revenue 17 obtained there from. This impacts so negatively on the company’s existence. For the enhancement of the attainment of the mission and goals of the company, it is therefore necessary that these hindrances be removed. The management of the company should familiarize themselves with internal control procedures that will ensure effective service delivery and the desired revenue generation. Unfortunately, there has a dearth of adequate information in this regard. No determined effort has been made to investigate the problem of weak internal control over service delivery and revenue generation. Therefore the main motivating factor underlying this study is the desire to break new grounds with the intent of shedding more light on this problem and seeking avenues for solving it. Thus, the purpose of this study is to examine and evaluate the internal control system in operation at power holding company of Nigeria in Enugu state with a view of knowing its impact on revenue generation in the state. 18 1.2 OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY The main objective of this study is to evaluate, the internal control system in operations at power holding company of Nigeria in Enugu state. Other objectives of the study are: I. To examine the types and techniques of internal control system for revenue generation adopted by Power Holding Company of Nigeria in Enugu state. II. To determine the impact of internal control system on revenue generation. III. To identify the strengths and weaknesses of the system of internal control in all departments in power holding company of Nigeria in Enugu state. 1.3 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY This study is significant for the following reasons: 19 i. These studies administrative will control highlight problems the plaguing accounting power and holding company of Nigeria in Enugu state. ii. It will enable managers of services, organizations and government owned public utility establishments to bring the accounting and the internal control procedures inherent in them in conformity with internal accounting standards and practises. iii. It will help government owned establishments to assess then internal control measures and make amends where necessary. iv. The study could arouse further research into some other further research into some other functional areas in the company by students and accountants. It will also help to broaden (my) researchers’ knowledge. 1.4 SCOPE AND LIMITATION OF THE STUDY Although the study was to evaluate the internal control system in operation at power holding company of Nigeria in Enugu 20 state, to ensure accurate and reliable data collection it was limited to the study of the internal control measures at the Enugu district unit of power holding company of Nigeria plc. This covers internal control as it affects revenue generation (handling of cash) assets control administrative control and manpower control as well. The researcher due to the following could not take a wider range of study: i. Inability to have access to some relevant documents from the officials in the company. ii. Financial and time constraint, which confined the researcher to only Enugu destruct unit. 1.5 RESEARCH HYPOTHESIS Based on the objectives of this study the following null and alternative hypotheses were developed. Ho1`: Effective internal control does not ensure effective service delivery and desired revenue generation. 21 HA1: Effective internal control system ensures effective service delivery and desired revenue generation. Ho2; Weak internal control system does not encourage collusion, fraud, embezzlement, loss of revenue, assets conversion and computation in power holding company of Nigeria. HA2: Weak internal control system encourages collusion, fraud, embezzlement, and loss of revenue, assets conversion and computation in power holding company of Nigeria. 1.6. RESEARCH QUESTIONS The following are a few of the questions, which were asked in the questionnaire in the carrying out of this research work. 1. Does the internal audit system ensure that operations comply with set policies and promote accuracy and reliability of transactions? 2. Are internal /external auditors independent of those whose functions they appraise? 22 3. Based on the evaluation of the internal control system, is it effective and efficient? 4. Is the accounting and operational routine sit out in an accounting Manuel? 1.7. HISTORICAL BACKGROUND OF NATIONAL ELECTRIC POWER AUTHORITY (NOW POWER HOLDING COMPANY OF NIGERIA) National Electric Power Authority was established by Decree No.24 of 1st April 1972 with the amalgamation of the Electricity Corporation of Nigeria (ECN) and the Niger Dam Authority (NDA). Electricity Corporation of Nigeria was the brainchild of the 1960 independence in Nigeria whereas the Niger Dam Authority existed and was the source of power during the colonial era. National Electric Power Authority was empowered to maintain an efficient, coordinated and economic system of electricity supply to all channels of the nation. 23 ENUGU DISTRICT BUSINESS UNIT OF POWER HOLDING COMPANY OF NIGERIA IN ENUGU STATE. Following the unbundling of NEPA into 18 successor companies in tandem with the Electric Power Sector Reform (EPSR) Act 2005. Enugu Electricity Distribution company plc is one of the 18 companies that emerged from power holding company of Nigeria seguel to the on-going power sector reform. Enugu Electricity Distribution Company is among the eleven electricity distribution-marketing companies in Nigerian. The corporate Affairs Commission registers it under the Nigeria Law. The company was granted operational License in 2006 by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC). It has 14 business districts. It is in charge of 5 states in south east geopolitical zone namely Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu and Imo state. The registered office is okpara Avenue PMB 01287 Enugu. The day-to-day administration of the company and formulation policies rests on the shoulders of the (CEO) Chief 24 Executive Officer. The Chief Executive Officer is ably assisted by Department heads (Assistant general managers) that are in charge of various departments. The departments include technical services customers, human resources and administrative, finance and accounts, audit public affairs and legal. The business is overseen by business managers who routinely report to the chief executive officer all this are to help facilitate prompt attention to customer issues and distribution of power. 1.8. DEFINITION OF TERMS REVENUE: This describes the amount of money a company generates in a set period of time through the sale of products or services. INTERNAL CONTROL SYSTEM: This is the whole system of control, financial and otherwise established by the management in order to carry on the business of the enterprise in an order to carry on the business of the enterprise in an orderly and efficient manner. 25 AUDITING: An activity earned on by the auditor when he verifies or examines accounting information determines the accuracy and reliability of the accounting statement and reports and then expresses his opinion. CONTROL ACTIVITIES: Policies and procedures that management has established AUDIT: An independent examination of and the subsequent expression of opinion upon the financial statements of an organization. INTERNAL CHECK: This is the allocation of authority and work in such a manner as to afford checks as the routine transactions of day to day work by means of the work of one person are being proved independently by another or the work of a person being complementary to that of another. 26 CHAPTER TWO REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE The accounting and administrative system of an entity may be simple, or they may be massive and complex. Independent public accountants; internal auditor, managers will be required to make periodic studies of the accounting and internal control such a system. It could be impracticable, if not imposing procedures affecting all types of transactions and plans. There will therefore be a need for the system internal control system to exist or be established in the organization to ensure simplified in the organization to ensure simplification in the accounting and the whole system, this is not only acceptable but also desirable and necessary. In order to fully understand the subject matter of this topic it is necessary to review the opinions of others in this field. In this chapter, the following subheadings will be discussed; 1. What is revenue? 27 2. What is internal control system? 3. Objectives of internal control system 4. Types of Internal control system 5. Components of internal control system 6. Functions of internal control system 7. Internal control and the auditor 8. Operation of internal control system at power Holding company of Nigeria. 9. Limitations of internal control system. 2.1 WHAT IS REVENUE Revenue refers to the monetary event of asset values increasing in the firm due to the physical event of production or sales of the products or services. Some companies also receive revenue from interest, dividends or royalties paid to them by other companies. Revenue may also refer to the amount in a monetary unit received during a period of time. Revenue is associated with products or services of the firm as the source of the expected cash receipts the asset value increasing in the firm occurs because the firm undertakes certain activities or there is performance by the firm. The 28 above may not be achieved without a sound internal control system in that organization or company. Thus in Kam (1989:237) FASB defined revenue as inflows or other enhancements of assets of an entity or settlements of its liabilities (or combination of both) during a period from delivery or producing goods, rendering services or other activities that constitutes the entity’s ongoing major or central operations. 2.2 WHAT IS INTERNAL CONTROL SYSTEM The concept of internal control is still being viewed by many people from a narrow perspective as being the steps taken by a business to prevent employee’s fraud. Actually such measures are rather a small part of internal control. It is a fundamental aspect of managements responsibility to provide interest parties with reasonable assurance that their organization is effectively controlled and that the accounting data it receives on a timely basis are accurate and dependable. This assurance is provided by developing a strong system of internal control. 29 In accounting and auditing, internal control is defines as a process effected by an organization’s structure, work and authority flows, people and management information systems designed to help the organization accomplish specific goals or objectives it is a means by which an organizations resources are directed, monitored and measured. It plays an important role in preventing and detecting fraud and protecting the organizations resource both physical and intargetable e.g trademark. Millichamp (1992:79) says that internal control system refers to the whole system of controls financial and otherwise, established by the management in order to carry on the business of the enterprise in an orderly and efficient manner, ensure adherence to management policies, safeguarded assets and as far as possible the completeness and accuracy of the records the individual components of an internal control system are known as controls or internal controls. In addition Meig’s et al (1982:139) further refers to internal control system as consisting of all measures employed by an organization to: 30 i. Safeguard assets from waste fraud and inefficient use. ii. Promote accuracy and reliability in accounting records. iii. Encourage and measure compliance with company policies and iv. Evaluate the efficiency of operation. Internal Control extends beyond the accounting and financial functions. Its scope is company indent and touches all activities of the organization. It includes the methods by which top management delegates authority and responsibilities. It should be concerned with the efficient use of resources to achieve a previously determined objective or set of objective. The need to perform audit engagement in accordance with Companies and Allied Matters Decree (CAMD) 1 of 1990 and strict adherence to Generally Accepted Auditing Standard (GAAS) has prompted the need for internal control in organizations. 2.3 OBJECTIVES OF INTERNAL CONTROL SYSTEM The objectives of internal control system includes: a. To carry on the business in an orderly and efficient manner to ensure adherence to management polices safeguard 31 its assets and secure the accuracy and reliability of the records. b. To make and keep books, records and accounts which in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and the dispositions of the assets of the issuers. c. To devise document and maintain a system of internal accounting control sufficient to provide assurance that; i. Transactions are executed in accordance with managements general or specific authorization. ii. with The recorded accountability for assets is compared the existing assets at reasonable intervals and appropriate action is taken with respect to any difference. iii. Transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles or any other criteria applicable to such statement. 2.4 TYPES OF INTERNAL CONTROL SYSTEM The internal control system consists of two main categories; a. Administrative control b. Accounting control 32 2.4.1 ADMINISTRATIVE CONTROLS Defliese, et al (1975:85) says administrative control is not Limited to the plan of the organization and the procedures and records that are concerned with the decision processes leading to management authorization of transactions. As a management function, authorization is directly associated with the responsibility for achieving the objectives of the organization and is the starting point for establishing account control of transactions. The importance of administrative control is reflected in the fact that the prime responsibility of management is to operate the organization within the available resources, it must be able to operate at acceptable cost, and use its limited resources in an efficient manner. To accomplish the above, management must develop the requisite policies needed to promote efficiency in every area of activity. These policies must be implemented through proper personnel selection, training and management. 33 2.4.2 ACCOUNTING CONTROLS These comprises the plan of organization and the procedures, measures and records that are concerned with the safeguarding of assets and the reliability of financial records and consequently are designed to provide reasonable assurance that transactions are executed in accordance with management general or specific authorization. The above definitions indicate that accounting control is designed to bring about accurate and suitable recording and summarization of only authorized financial transactions. Failure by Power Holding Company of Nigeria Management to install and effectively maintain such a control means that the objectives implicitly in the above definition would not be achieved. A direct consequence of this is the high incidence of loss or error. 2.5 COMPONENTS OF INTERNAL CONTROL SYSTEM Internal characteristics Control that Systems give the generally have organization certain reasonable assurance that administrative and accounting controls are functioning properly. 34 According to Bodnar et al (1998:169-184) and county of orange internal audit department (2003: 780) an organizations internal control system consist of five interrelated components as follows: control environment, Risk assessment, control activities, information and communication and monitoring. All the five internal control components must be present to conclude that internal control is effective. 2.5.1 CONTROL ENVIRONMENT An organizations control environment is the foundation of all other components of the internal control system, its sometimes referred to as the tone at the top of the organization. The control environment is the collective effect of various factors on establishing, enhancing or mitigating the effectiveness of specific polices and procedures. In otherwords, the control environment sets the overall tone of the organization and influences the control consciousness of the employees. Factors that characterize the control environment are as follows: 35 2.5.1.1 ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE This is defined by the patterns of authority and responsibility that exists within the organization. The formal organization structure is often denoted by an organizational chart, which indicates the formal communication patterns within an organization. An informed organization structure exist where regular communication pattern do not follow the lines indicated by the formed organization structure. 2.5.1.2 COMMITMENT TO COMPETENCE There should be procedures to ensure that personnel have the capabilities commensurate with their responsibilities. Inevitably, the proper functioning of any system depends on the competence of those operating it. The qualifications, selection and training as well as the innate personal characteristics of the personnel involved are important features to be considered in setting up any control system. 2.5.1.3 A INTEGRITY AND ETHNICAL VALUES control environment should be fostered that encourages the highest levels of integrity, personal and professional standards. Many organizations have adopted 36 ethnics, codes of conduct that specify guidelines for conducting business in an ethnical manner. The code of conduct is often written in legal style language that focuses on land that might be broken potential ethnical violations present a significant loss exposure for the organizations. Such exposures include the possibility of large fines or criminal prosecution against both the company and its executives. 2.5.1.4 MANAGEMENT PHILOSOPHY AND OPERATING STYLE Effective control in an organization begins with and ultimately rests with management philosophy. If management believes that controls are important, then it will see to it that effective control policies and procedures are implemented. This control conscious attitude will be communicated to subordinates through the management operating style. Management enhances the control environment when they behave in an ethnical manner creating a positive “tone at the top” and when they require that same standard of conduct from everyone in the organization. When the Management 37 pays only lip service to the need for control, then control objectives will not be achieved. 2.5.1.5 ATTENTION AND DIRECTION PROVIDED BY THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND ITS COMMITTEES. An organizations board of directors is the interface between the stockholders who own the organization and the organizations operating management. Stockholders exercise control over management through the functions of the board of directors and its committee. Typically, the board of directors’ delegate’s specific functions to various operating committees such as the audit committees, which should be independent of an organization management. It is composed primarily of outside members of the board of directors. The audit committee is usually changed with overall responsibility for the organizations financial reports, including compliance with existing laws and regulations. The audit committee nominates public accounts discusses the scope and nature of audits with public accountants review and evaluates reports prepared by the organizations public accountants. 38 2.5.1.6 MANNER OF ASSIGNING AUTHORITY AND RESPONSIBILITY i. A formal organization chart, a written document is often used to indicate the overall assignment of authority and responsibility in an organization. often accompanied by a The organization chart is formal statements of work assignment. job descriptions and Written memoranda policy manuals and procedure manuals are other common means used to formally assign authority and responsibility within an organization. ii. Budgeting: This in a management activity set for the entire organization a swell as for each subunit. Detailed operating budgets are prepared for subunits to evidence management’s plan concerning operating of each subunits and to serve as the device by which managements plans are commence to subunits. Budgeting data are used to plan and control the activities within a firm. A budget is a control that sets forth a financial plan and /or an authorized amount of resources that may be utilized be a sub unit in performing its functions. 39 2.5.1.7 HUMAN RESOURCE POLICIES AND PROCEDURES Personnel are the key components in any control system personnel should be competent with capabilities and training commensurate with their duties. i. Segregation of Duties: Responsibility for specific tasks in an organization should be clearly designated by manuals, jobs description or other documentation. Effective segregation of duties depends to a considerable extent on the precise ad detailed planning of all procedures and the careful assignment of functions to various people in the organization. The details of the procedures should be set forth in a memoranda that also shows explicit assignment of duties to individuals department and employees. Written procedures, instructions and assignments of duties will prevent duplication of work, overlapping of functions, omission of important functions, misunderstandings and other situations that might weaken the internal accounting controls. Such notes typically form the basin of a formal manner or procedures and policy. 40 ii. Supervision: This is the direct monitoring of personnel performance by an employee who is so charged. Proper supervision is necessary to ensure that duties are being carried out as assigned. iii. Job Rotation and Forced Vacations: This allows employees to check or verify the operations of other employees by performing their duties for a period of time irregularities that may have been committed by an employee may be disclosed while the employee is on vacation with his or her duties assumed by another employee. Job rotation allows more then one employee to become familiar with certain duties and procedures so that the replacement of employees in cases of emergency is less difficult. It serves as a general check on the efficiency on vacation or who has been rotated to another job. 2.5.2 RISK ASSESSMENT This is the second of the five components of internal control system concerned with identifying, analyzing and managing risks that affects the company’s objective. 41 2.5.2.1 DETERMINE GOALS AND OBJECTIVE The central theme of internal Control is (1) to identify risks to the achievement of an organizations objective and (2) to do what is necessary to management those risks. Thus, setting goals and objectives is a precondition to internal controls. If an organization does not have goals and objective, there is no need for internal control. At the organization level, goals and objectives are presented in strategic plan that includes a mission statements and broadly defined strategic initiatives. At the department level, goals and objectives must support the organizations strategic plan. Goals and objectives are clarifies in the following categories. a. Operations: The risks and related objectives pertain to the achievement of the basic mission(s) of a department and the effectiveness and efficiency of its operations, including performance standards and safeguarding resource against loss. b. Financial Reporting: These risks and related objectives pertain to the preparation of reliable financial 42 reports including the prevention of fraudulent public financial reporting. c. Compliance: These risks and related objectives pertain to adherence to applicable laws and regulations. The following table illustrates these concepts. Fig. 2.1 Classification of a department’s goal and objective OBJECTIVES i. CLASSIFICATIONS Payroll: provide service and support to the organization ii. Processing: Compensation/withholding; Operations (O) Compensation deductions rates should and be payroll accurately and properly entered into the payroll system Iii Each accounting period prepare journal Financial (F) entries for payroll deductions and related adjustments. Iv Processing: Authorization; management accurately should maintain personnel Compliance (C) properly all and compensation 43 documentation v. An employee master file that is accurate O, F, C, and complete should be maintained Source: Understanding internal controls, country of Orange internal audit department, California, March, 2003; p.11. From the above it is obvious that a clear set of goals and objectives is fundamental to the success of a department. Specifically, a department of work unit should have; (1) A mission statement (2) Written goals and objectives for the department as a whole and (3) Written goals and objectives for each significant activity in the department (see diagram below). 44 (4) Department Mission Department Goals and objectives Activities to Achieve goals And objectives Activity level Goals and Objectives Furthermore, goals and objectives should be expressed in terms that allow meaningful performance measurements. There are certain activities, which are significant to all departments such as budgeting, purchasing goods and services, hiring employees, payroll, evaluating employees and safeguarding property and equipment. Thus all departments are expected to have appropriate goals and objectives, policies and procedures and internal controls for these activities. 2.5.2.2 IDENTIFY RISK AFTER DEFINING GOALS Risks assessment is the identification and analysis of risks associated with the achievement of operations financial reporting and compliance goals and objectives. Thus in turn, forms a basis for determining how those risks should be managed. 45 To properly manage their operation, managers need to determine the level of operations, financial and compliance risk are writing to assume. Risk assessment is more of management’s responsibilities and enables management to act proactively in reducing unwanted surprises. Failure to consciously manage those risks can result in reduced assurance that goals and objectives will be achieved. a. Risk identification: A risk is anything that could jeopardize the achievement of an objective. For each of the departments objectives risk should be identified. Asking the following question helps to identify risks. What could go wrong? How could we fail? What must go right for us to success? Where are we vulnerable? What arrest do we need to protect? How could someone steal from the department? How could someone disrupt out operations? How do we know if our objectives are being achieved? 46 On what information do we most rely? On what do we spend the most money? How do we bill and collect revenue? What is our legal greatest exposure? It is important that risk identification be comprehensive at he department level and at the activity or process level for operations financial reporting and compliance objectives considering both external and internal risks factors. Usually several risks can be identified for each objectives. Using the previous example, the following table illustrates the concepts discussed so far. The identified risks relates to the goals and objectives previously determined. Fig 2.2 Classification of department objectives and related risks; GOALS AND BUSINESS OBJECTIVES RISKS OBJECTIVE CLASSIFICATION i. Payroll. Provide services Transactions may not be and processed or processed support to the 47 ii. organization incorrectly. Processing: Compensation/ Operations (0) Statement withholding: compensation misstated due to entry rates omission, and deductions payroll should may be incorrect be coding, duplicate journal accurately and promptly entries or improper cut- entered into the payroll offs. system ii. iv. Each accounting period Financial (F) Employment laws and prepare journal entries for regulations payroll, payroll deductions violated resulting in five and related adjustments penalties and litigation Processing: Authorizations Compliance (C) Incorrect data in the Personnel master file could result should accurately Management properly maintain and in all may incorrect be wage payment compensation documentation v. An employee master file O, F, C Payroll withholdings 48 that is accurate and complete should be maintained may be incorrect award incentives recognition etc may not be reflected on the master file. Sources: Understanding internal control, county of orange Internal Audit Department, California. March, 2003; P.14 b. Quantitative and Qualitative cost: When evaluating the potential impact of risk, both quantitative and qualitative cost needs to be addressed. Quantitative costs include the cost of property equipment, or inventory, cash naria loss, damage and repair cost, cost of defending a lawsuit etc. Qualitative costs can have wide ranging implications to the organizations. These costs may include loss of public trust loss of future grants, gifts and donations, injury to the organizations reputation, violation of laws public health and safety and also default on a project. c. Risk Analysis: After risk have been identified a risk analysis should be performed to priorities those risks: 49 Estimate the potential impact if the risk were to occur consider both qualitative and quantitative cost. Assess the probability of risk occurring. Determine how the risk should be managed decide what actions are necessary. Prioritizing helps department focus their attention on managing significant risks lie risks with reasonable likelihoods of occurrence and large potential impacts). d. Factors to guide a Department through its Risk assessment: Make sure the department has a mission statement with written goals and objectives. Assess risks at the department level and activity at process levels. Complete a business control worksheet for each significant activity or process in the department prioritize these activities or process which are most critical to the success of the department and those activities which could be improved the most. 50 Make sure that all risks identified at the department level are addressed in he business controls work sheet. 2.5.3 CONTROL ACTIVITIES Control activities are actions supported by policies and procedures that help assure management directives to address risks are carried out properly and closely. In the same way that managers are primarily responsible for identifying the financial and compliance risks for their operations, they also have live responsibility for designing, implementing and monitoring their internal control system. There is the need to distinguish between preventive and detective controls for better understanding of control activities. The indent of these controls is different. Preventive controls attempt to deter or prevent undesirable events from occurring. They are proactive controls that help to prevent a loss. Examples of preventive controls are separation of duties proper authorization, adequate documentation, and physical control over assets. Detective controls, on the other hand, attempt to detect undesirable acts. They provide evidence that a loss has 51 occurred but do not prevent a loss from occurring. Examples of detective control are reviews, analysis, reconciliation, physical inventories and audits. Both types of controls are essential to an effective internal control system. From a quality stand point, preventive control are essential because they are proactive and emphasis quality. However detective control plays a critical role providing evidence that the preventive controls are functioning and preventing losses. Control activities include; Approvals, authorities, verifications, reconciliation’s, review of performance security of assets, segregation of duties and control over information systems and are further explained as follows: 2.5.3.1 APPROVALS/AUTHORIZATION (PREVENTIVE) An important control activity is authorization approval. Management authorizes employees to perform certain activities and to execute certain transactions within limited parameters. In addition, management specifies those 52 activities or transactions that need supervisory approval before they are performed or executed by employees. Authorization is the delegation of authority it may be general or specific. Giving a department permission to expand funds from an approved budget is an example of general authorization. Specific authorization relates to individual transactions, it requires the signature or electric approval of a transaction by a person with approval authority. Approval of a transaction means that the approver has received the supporting documentation and is satisfied that the transaction by a person with approval authority is appropriate, accurate and complies with applicable laws regulations, policies and procedures. Approvers should review supporting documentation, question unusual items and make sure that necessary information is present to justify the transactions before they sign it. Signing blank forms should not be done. Approval authority may be linked to specific naira levels. Transactions that exceed the specified naira levels would require approval at a higher level. Under no circumstance 53 should an approver tell some one to sign on behalf of the approver or share this password with another person. To ensure proper segregation of duties the person initiating a transaction should not be the person who approves the transaction. A departments approval levels should be specified in a department policies and procedures usual. 2.5.3.2 RECONCILIATIONS (DEFECTIVE) Broadly defined, reconciliation is a comparison of different sets of data to one another, identifying and investigating differences and taking corrective actions when necessary to resolve differences. Reconciling monthly financial reports of files copies of supporting documentation or departmental accounting records is an example of reconciling one set of data to another. This control helps to ensure the accuracy and completeness of transactions that have been charged to a departments account. To ensure proper segregation of duties, the person who approves transactions or handles cash receipts should not be the person who performs the reconciliation. A critical element of the reconciliation process is resolved differences. It does 54 not do any good to note differences and do nothing about it. Difference should be identified, investigated and explained. Corrective actions must be taken when necessary if expenditure is incorrectly charged to a departments account, then the approver and reconciler should ascertain that the correcting journal voucher was posted. Reconciliation should be documented and approved by management. 2.5.3.3 REVIEW OF PERFORMANCE (DETECTIVE) Management review of reports, statements, reconciliations and other information is an important activity. Management should review such information for propriety, consistency and reasonableness. Reviews of performance provide a basis for detecting problems. Management should compare information about current performance of budgets forecasts, prior periods, or other benchmarks to measure the extent to which goals and objectives are being achieved and to identify unexpected results or unusual conditions, which require follow-up. 55 Managements review of reports, statements, recon and other informations should be documented as well as the resolution of items noted for follow-up. 2.5.3.4 ASSET SECURITY (PREVENTIVE AND DETECTIVE) Liquid assets, assets with alternative uses, dangerous assets vital documents, critical system and confidential information must be safeguarded against authorized acquisition, use or disposition. Typically, access controls are the best way to safeguard these assets. Examples of access controls are as follows; locked door, keypad system, and key system, badge system locked filing cabinet, guard, computer password, menu protection and data encryption. Departments that have capital assets or significant inventions should establish perpetual inventory control over these items by recording purchase and issuances. Periodically, a person who is independent of the purchase authorization and asset custody functions should physically count the items. The counts should be compared to balances per the perpetual records. 56 Missing items should be investigated, resolved timely and analysed for possible control deficiencies, perpetual records should be adjusted to physical counts if missing items are not located. 2.5.3.5 SEGREGATION OF DUTIES (PREVENTIVE AND DETECTIVE) Segregation of duties is critical to effective internal control. It reduces inappropriate actions. initiate transaction, the risk of both erroneous and In general no one person should approve the transaction, record it, reconcile balances, custody or handle assets and review reports. All the functions should be separated among employees. When these functions cannot be seperated, detailed supervisory review of related activities is required as a compensating control activity. Segregation of duties is a deterrent to fraud because it requires collusion with another person to perpetrate a fraudulent act. Specific examples of segregation of duties are follows: 57 The person who requisitions the purchase of goods or services should not be the person who approves the purchase. The person who approves the purchase of goods or service not be the person who reconciles the monthly financial reports. The person who approves the purchase of goods or services should not have custody of checks. The person who opens the mains and prepares a listing of checks received should not be the person who makes the deposit. The person who opens the mail and prepares a listing of checks received should not be the person who maintains the accounts receivable records. 2.5.3.6 INFORMATION SYSTEMS Organization employees use a variety of information system mainframe computers, local areas and wide areas networks of mini computers and personal computer single user workstations and personal computers, telephone systems etc. 58 The need for internal control over these systems depends on the importance and confidentiality of the information and the complexity of the application that reside on the systems. There are basically two categories of control over information systems. General Control and application controls a. General Control: (Preventive and Detective): General controls apply to entire information systems and to all the applications that reside on the systems. General control consists of practices deigned to maintain the integrity and availability of information processing functions, networks and association application systems. These controls apply to business application processing in computer centers by ensuring complete and accurate processing. These control ensure that correct data files are processed processing diagnostics and errors are noted and resolved, application and functions are processed according to established schedules, file backups are taken at appropriates intervals recovery procedures for processing features are consistently applied 59 and actions of computer operators and system administration are system administrators are reviewed. Additionally, these controls ensure that physical security and environmental measures are taken to reduce the risk of sabotage vandalism and destruction of networks and computer processing centers. Finally, these controls ensure the adoption of disaster planning to guide the successful recovery and continuity of networks and computer processing in the event of a disaster. b. Applications Control: (Preventive and Detective): Applications are the computer programs and processes that enables us to conduct essential activities, buying products, paying people, accounting for revenues and expenditures and forecasting and monitoring budgets. Application systems and controls include apply input to computer controls (e.g application edit checks) processing controls (e.g record counts) and output controls (e.g error listing), which are specific to individual applications. Application controls consist of the mechanisms in place over each seperate computer system, which ensure that authorized 60 data is completely and accurately processed. designed to prevent, detect and correct They are errors and irregularities as transactions flow through the business system. They ensure that the transactions and programs are secured, the systems can resume processing after some business interruption, all transactions are corrected and accounted for when errors occur and the system process data in an efficient manner. When a department decides to purchase or to develop an application, department personnel must ensure the application include adequate controls: 1. (1) Input Control (2) Processing controls and (3) Output controls Input control: Ensure the complete an accurate recording of authorized transactions by only authorized users, identify, rejected, suspended and duplicate items and ensure resubmission of rejected and suspended items. Examples of input control are error listings, field checks, limit checks, self- 61 checking digits, sequence checks, validity checks, key verification, matching and completeness checks. 2. Processing Control: Ensure the complete and accurate processing of authorized transactions. Examples of processing controls are run to run control totals, posting checks, end of file procedures, concurrency control, controls files and audit trails. 3. Output Control: Ensure that a complete and accurate audit trail of the results of processing is reported to appropriate individuals for review. Examples of output control are listing of master files changes, error listings, distribution registers and review of output. 2.5.3.7 BALANCING RISKS AND CONTROLS To achieve goals, management needs to effectively balance risks and control. By performing this balancing act “reasonable assurance can be attained. At it relates to financial and compliance goals being out of balance causes the following problems: 62 EXCESSIVE RISKS EXCESSIVE CONTROL Loss of assets Increased bureaucracy Poor business decisions Reduced productivity Non compliance Increased Complexity Increased regulations Increased cycle time Public scandals Increase of non-value activities In order to achieve a balance between risks and controls, internal controls should be proactive value added and cost effective. 2.5.4 INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION Information and communication are essential to effecting control, information about an organization’s plans, control environment, risk, control activities and performance must be communicated up, down and across an organization. Reliable and relevant information from both internal and external sources must be identified captured, processed and communicated to the people who need it in a form and time frame that is useful. Informations system procedure reports containing operational, financial and compliance related 63 information that makes it possible to run and control an organization. Information and communication systems can be formal or informal. Formal information and communication systems which range from sophisticated computer technology to simple staff meetings should provide input and feed back data relative to operations, financial reporting and compliance objectives such systems are vital to an organization success. Just the same informal conversations with customers supplies, regulation and employees often provide some of the most critical information needed to identify risks and opportunities. When assessing internal control over a significant activity (or process) the key questions to ask about information and communication are as follows: Does our department get the information it needs from internal and external sources in a form and time frame that is useful? 64 Does our department get information that alerts it to internal or external risks (e.g legislative, regulatory and developments)? Does our departments get information that measures its performance information that tells the department whether it is achieving its operations, financial report and compliance objectives? Does our department identify, capture and process and communicate the information that others need (e.g information used by our customers or other department) in a form and time frame that is useful? Does our department provide information to others that alerts them to internal or external risks? Does our department communicate effectively internally and externally? Nevertheless, communicating with people and gathering information to people in a form and time frame that in useful to them is a constant challenge. When completing a business controls work sheet for a significant activity or process in a 65 department evaluate the quality of related information and communication systems. 2.5.5 MONITORING Monitoring is the performance over time assessment of internal it is accomplished control by on-going monitoring activities and by separate evaluations of internal control such as self-assessments peer reviews and internal audits. The purpose of monitoring is to determine whether internal control is adequately designed, properly executed and effective. Internal control is adequately designed and properly executed if all five internal control components are present and functioning as designed. Internal control is effective if the board of directors, the management and departmental management have reasonable assurance that; They understand the extent to which operations objectives are being achieved. Published financial statements are prepared reliably. Applicable laws and regulations are being complied. 66 While internal control is a process, its effectiveness is an assessment of the condition of the process at one or more points in time. Just as control activities helps to ensure that actions to manage risks are carried out, monitoring helps to ensure that control activities and other planned actions to effect internal control are carried out properly and timely and that the end result is effective internal control. On going monitoring activities include various management and supervisory activities that evaluate and improve the design, execution, and effectiveness of internal control. Separate evaluations on the other hand such as selfassessments and internal audits are periodic evaluations of internal control components resulting in a formal report on internal control. Self-assessments are performed by department employees internal audits are performed by internal auditors who provide an independent appraisal of internal control. 2.6 FUNCTIONS OF INTERNAL CONTROL SYSTEM a. To provide reliable data management must be provided with accurate, timely as well as dependable information that 67 will aid them in an informed decision-making concerning the operations of the business. It keeps management informed as to whether the financial position is sound operation profitable and interdepartmental relations harmonies. b. To encourage adherence to prescribed policies. Decision made by management becomes company policies. To be effective, this policy must be communicated throughout the company and consistently followed. Internal control aids in securing compliance with company policy. Management equality has a direct responsibility of maintaining accounting records and producing financial statements that are adequate and reliable. Internal Control provides assurance that this responsibility is being met. c. To promote operational efficiency. The controls within an organization are meant to prevent unnecessary duplication of efforts, protect against wastes in all aspects of the business and discourage other types of inefficient use of resources. This will enhance the use of minimal or limited resources of the organization to achieve maximum productivity regarding 68 profits realization and other co-operate objectives of the organization. d. To the independent public accountant, the quality of internal controls in force determines the pattern of their examination; of course they study and evaluate the system of internal control from time to time. e. Internal accounting control system ensures that the values of assets remain at their true and fair values. f. It ensures the existence of division of labour, providing that one person does not do the handing of a transaction or economic activity from the beginning to the end. 2.7 ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES According to the committee of sponsoring organizations (COSO) framework, everyone in an organization has responsibility for internal control to some extent. Virtually all employees produce information used in the internal control system or take other actions needed to effect control. Also, all personnel should be responsible for communicating upward problems in operations, non-compliance with the code of 69 conduct or other policy violation or illegal actions. Each major entity in corporate governance has a particular role to play; a. Chief Executive Officer (C.E.O): The CEO has Ultimate responsibility and ownership of the internal control. The individual in this role sets the tone at the top that affects the integrity and ethnics and other factors that create the positive control environment needed for the internal control system to thrive. Aside from setting the tone at the top, much of the day-to-day operation of the control system in delegated to other senior managers in the company, under the leadership of the CEO. b. Chief Financial Officer (CFO): Much of the internal control structure flows through the organizations under the leadership of the CFO. In particular controls over financial reporting fall within the domain of the chief financial officer. The audit committee should use interactions with the CFO and others as a basin for their comfort level on the internal control over financial reporting. This is not intended to suggest that the CFO must provide the audit committee with a level of assurance regarding the system of internal control over 70 financial reporting rather through interactions with the CFO and others, the audit committee should get a gut feeling about the completeness, accuracy, validity and maintenance of the system of internal control over financial reporting. c. Controller/Director of Accounting or Finance: Much of the basis of the control system comes under the domain of this position. It is key that the controllers understand the need for the internal control system is committed to the system and communicates the importance of the system to all people in the accounting organization. Further, the controller must demonstrate respect for the system though his or her actions. d. Internal Audit: A main role for the internal audit team is to evaluate the effectiveness of the internal control system and contribute to its ongoing effectiveness with the internal audit team reporting directly to the audit committee of he board of directors and/or the most senior levels of management, it is often this functions that plays a significant role in monitoring the internal control system. It is important to not that many non-profit making organizations are not large 71 enough to employ an internal audit team. Each organization should assess the need for this team and employ one as necessary. e. Board of Director/Audit Committee: board in necessary. A strong, active This is particularly important when an executive or management team controls with tight reins over the organization and the people within the organization. The board should recognize that its scope of over sight of the internal control system applies to all the three majors areas of control: over operations, over compliance with laws and regulations, and over financial reporting. The audit committee is the boards first line of defense with respect to the system of internal control over financial reporting. f. All Other Personnel: The Internal control system is only as effective as the employees throughout the organization that must comply with it. Employees throughout the organization should understand their role in internal control and the importance of supporting the system through their own actions and 72 encouraging respect for the system by their colleagues through the organization. 2.8 INTERNAL CONTROL SYSTEMS AND THE AUDITOR The introduction of a well-developed system of internal control is the responsibility of the management. But it is a matter of concern for the auditor though he has no authority to recommend and prescribe that certain rules and procedures should be adopted by the business. He can simply guide and help if required to do so. What is expected from him is he must possess an expert’s knowledge of such procedures. In the second standard of filed work set out by the AICPA, it is made clear that “ there is to be proper study and evaluation of the existing internal control as a basis for reliance thereon and for the determination of the resultant extent of the rests to which auditing procedures are to be restructed”. Thus, the aim behind the study of internal control by an auditor is to establish a basis for reliance on the system of this control so as to enable him to assess the extent to which he should apply tests during the course of audit. 73 This much is certain that if there is a good system of internal control, the work of an auditor becomes quite easy. He can very conveniently rely on test checking. However, it depends upon special circumstance of a particular case as to how far internal control would be helpful in the audit work. The following points would be helpful in screening the internal control system: 1. Study of accounting routine, its weaknesses and sources from which they would arise. 2. Financial powers vested in the various officials and the circumstances in which they are to be used. 3. Study of limits of inspection over financial and other accounting duties. 4. Whether some mechanical appliances are used to prevent any defalcation of cash etc and 5. Whether any device of checks and balances is used to measure the success of accounting methods of techniques. The auditor should also have in mind: 74 a. The likelihood of collusion as well as combination of duties, which would enable someone conceal irregularities. b. The likelihood of collusion between close relatives each working in the same department or organization. c. The extent to which employees in position of trust, especially those handling cash failing to take regular annual leave or vacations. The auditor can be in a position to perform audit efficiently provided there is a good and effective internal control system in use. under However, it does not mean that he can take shelter the system and shirk his duties. The entire responsibility is his and there is nothing to protect him if he does his work carelessly and with negligence. 2.9 OPERATION OF INTERNAL CONTROL SYSTEM AT POWER HOLDING COMPANY OF NIGERIA In designing a system of internal control, the personnel should be segregated by functions into those who initiates or authorize transactions and those who execute transactions. 75 From the standpoint of internal control, the establishment’s transactions cycle may be divided into: a. Revenue Cycle: Events related to the distribution of goods and services to the customers, other entities and the collection of related payments. b. Expenditure cycle: Events related to the acquisition of goods and services from other entities and the settlement of related obligations. c. Production Cycle: Events related to the transaction of researches into goods and services. d. Finance Cycle: Events related to the acquisition and management of capital funds including cash. Each of the transaction cycle will have exposure (risk i.e sometimes financial consequences). Management should develop detailed control objective for each transactions cycle objectives provide a basis for analysis. objectives have been slated, Once the control management may collect information to determine the extent to which control objectives are being achieved in each of the organizations transaction cycles. 76 The specific control objectives for each transaction cycles drawn from the concept of an internal control structure are as follows: a. Revenue cycle: i. The customers should be authorized in accordance with management’s criteria. ii. The prices and terms of good and services provided should be authorized in accordance with management’s criteria. iii. All shipments or movements of goods and services provided should result in billing to the customers. iv. Billings to customers should be accurately and promptly classified. Summarized and reported. b. Expenditure cycle: i. Vendor should be authorized in accordance with accordance with management’s criteria. ii. Employees should management’s criteria. be hired in 77 iii. Access to personnel payroll and disbursement record should be permitted only in accordance with management criteria. iv. Compensation rates and payroll deductions should be authorized in accordance with management’s criteria. v. Amounts due to vendors should be accurately and promptly classified, summarized and reported. c. Production cycle: i. The production plan should be authorized in accordance with management’s criteria ii. Costs of goods and service manufactured or produced should be accurately and promptly classified summarized and reported. d. Finance Cycle: i. The amounts and timing of debts transactions should be authorized in accordance with management’s criteria. ii. Access to cash and securities should be permitted only in accordance with management’s criteria. 78 2.9.1 BASIC CONTROLS Basic controls are those controls necessary for the completeness and accuracy of accounting records. These include such techniques as: i. Pre-numbering original documents. For examples vouchers and purchase invoices. ii. Maintaining total accounts to provide an independent overall control over the ledger to which they related. iii. Detail checking of document or according record against another. Examples, the comparison of cheque invoice and goods received notes. iv. Authorization of documents after examination and checking by the head of other charges sections and head of payroll (Salaries) section before any processing monthly reconciliation of cash book with bank statements. vi. All service centers and customer care centers of the establishment receipt book. render monthly returns and use/unused 79 vii. Taking out periodic trial balances to check the arithmetical accuracy of the book –keeping for the final account. 2.9.2 OPERATIONAL CONTROLS These are designed to ensure the continued and proper operation of safeguarding assets. At power Holding company of Nigeria, operational control entails the following: i. It measures and corrects performance. O’ Daniel (1996:32) maintains that “control is essentially a management function that deals with the measurement and correction of the performance of subordinates with a view to achieving organizations objectives with maximum efficiency and at minimum cost”. ii. It brings about efficiency. Internal Control consists of the measures designs to promote operational efficiency and to encourage adherence to managements policies. iii. It provides control of activities. According to Louis (1989:95) if management is to direct the activities of a business according to plan every transaction should go 80 through four steps. It should be authorized, approve, executed and recorded,” 2.9.3 INTERNAL AUDITING This is an important element of internal control internal auditors are professional employees with the responsibility of investigating throughout the establishment, the efficiency of operations in every departments or unit. They study and list the system of internal control and report to the district Business Manager on their findings or problems, which require strengthening of internal controls. 2.9.4 ELECTRONIC DATA PROCESSING MACHINES/COMPUTER SYSTEM The audit procedures adopted in the audit of electronic data processing are not basically different from that of manual. An electronic data processing system and machines are of great importance in the functioning of internal control. Because of the possession of great data processing speed, daily processes involving cash receipts, cheques can provide management with a continually up to data cash receipt 81 journal, cheque register, customer accounts ledger and cash balance. Computers are outstanding and can prepare reliable bank reconciliation outstanding. even when cheques and cash are It can provide current information for cash planning and for cashing. 2.10 LIMITATIONS OF INTERNAL CONTROL SYSTEM Although internal control system is highly effective in increasing the reliability of accounting data and in protecting against frauds, no system of internal control is error free. However, for a coin there must be two sides. Two or more dishonest employees working in collusion can detect the system temporarily. Carelessness by employees and misunderstanding of instructions/procedures can cause a breakdown in controls. The inherent limitations includes the following: i. A good system of internal control can become ineffective as a result of employees fatigue and indifference. 82 Ii In the performance of the procedures of internal control errors occur due to carelessness, misunderstanding of procedures and other inherent mistakes. iii. Personal and professional associations within the management structure makes it difficult to detect fraud. iv. A well-formulated system of internal control can be destroyed by employees’ lack of confidence and co-operation. v. Management is frequently in the position to override control which it has itself set-up. Control can be abused by the person on whom the authority is vested upon for his personal gain. vi. Overly rigid control hamper the actions and decisions of individuals, artificial limiting an employees response to the variety of his or her tasks. Accountability and pressures for performance may boomerang. Rigid control system may create the types of actions that the control were designed to prevent. vii. Adequate accounting and management staff may be lacking and thus making a way for inadequate managerial supervision, ineffectiveness and a breakdown of the control system. viii. Cost will prevent management from ever installing an ideal system. 83 CHAPTER THREE RESEARCH METHODOLOGY The aim of this chapter in to present in detail the methods used in this research. This focuses on the various method used by the researcher to obtain data. Research methodology involves and orderly manner employed in collection, interpreting and analyzing of data used in this study, which involves selection of sample, population, and research data as well as the statistic tool of analysis. 3.1 RESEARCH DESIGN A research design can be described as an outline or plan from which an activity can be carried out (Nworgi, 1999:23). It provides the procedural outline for the conduct of any given investigation. This research work is designed to study how internal control system affects revenue generation in power Holding Company of Nigeria. This covers all the P. H. C. N., which is represented with the branch at Okpara Avenue. However the findings will be generalized to all. 84 3.2 SOURCES OF DATA In order to collect as much relevant material on this study as possible, a number of methods of data collection were used. However for good understanding of the revenue generation both primary and secondary sources of data used. As a matter of facts filed research work in form of personal interview, questionnaires were administered together for the purpose of this work. 3.2.1 PRIMARY DATA Primacy sources of data were used on this study mainly as they provide basic reliable and concrete information from the respondents. The questionnaire was the major source of my data collection. The information got were analyzed and findings drawn. Personal interviews were conducted in scenes where adequate and accurate information was not obtained through the use of questionnaires. 85 3.2.2 SECONDARY DATA There are information’s already in existence before the conduction of this research works. It constitutes a stepping stone in most research works, assignments, Internet searches etc just in this case. This is because the knowledge acquired from reading and collecting materials done by others will help me generate primary data. Library research was also done, the in of text books journals and other published materials. 3.3 POPULATION OF THE STUDY This study “the impact of internal control system on revenue generation in power Holding company of Nigeria considers time and resource available. The research was only limited to the staff of the power holding company Okpara Avenue of various departments. The population of the staff of company is 40. 3.4 SAMPLE SIZE This is the number of respondents the questionnaire was administered to the entire population being 40 respondents were given questionnaire and all was returned correctly filled. 86 Therefore this number makes up the sample size for this research. 3.5 DESCRIPTION OF QUESTIONNAIRE This questionnaire involved for the research work was typed questions personally issued to the respondents so as to enable them fill in their options to the questions asked. The questions were in form of Yes or No structures to enable the respondent with limited knowledge of the study areas to answer them with minimum accuracy. 3.6 METHOD OF DATA ANALYSIS This involves the procedures adopted in analyzing the hypothesis used in the research. The null hypothesis (Ho) and the altering alive hypothesis (Ha) were analyzed using percentages and chi-square. The percentages were used to calculate the numbers of respondents who answered Yes or No. The presentation is in a tabular form. The chi-square (X2) was used to test the hypothesis put forward in chapter one and from the answers gotten from the questionnaires and personal interview. The use of chi-square is important where there are two or more 87 population proportion chi-square is used to test the validity of the result of the correlation coefficient it should however be stressed that the correlation coefficient measures the direction of the association among two variables. 3.7 STATISTICAL TOOL FOR TEST OF HYPOTHESIS The chi-square (X2) was used to test the hypothesis. The chi-square test (X2) is an important extension of the hypothesis testing and is used to compare an actual or observed distribution with a hypothesized or expected distribution. It is often referred to as goodness of fit test. The value of chi-square was computed using the formula X2 = Σ (Fo - Fe) Fe Where Fo = observed fervency Fe = expected or theoretical frequency The observed and expected frequency Σ = summation Σ (FO-Fe)2 Fe sum of all deviations squared and weighted 88 CHAPTER FOUR DATA PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION This chapter is concerned with data presentation analysis and interpretation of data collected from both primary and secondary sauces. The data were collected through the use of questionnaires and data unless adequately analyzed makes little or no meaning to anybody. A total of 40 questionnaires copies were sent out and it was all returned. This presents 100% response. The analysis presented is solely done by using simple percentage based on the response form employees of power holding company of Nigeria Enugu business district on which the questionnaire was administered. 4.1 DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETION The analysis and interpretations of data are shown in tables 89 QUESTION 1 RANK OF RESPONDENTS TABLE 1 Variables Respondents Percentage (%) Senior manager 2 5 Manager 3 7.5 Assistant managers 5 12.5 Officer I, II or III 15 37.5 Other 15 37.5 Total 40 100 From the responses to question I in the questionnaire in table I above only two respondents or 5% indicted that they should position of senior manager 3 or 75% are manages, 5 or 12% are Assistant managers, 15 or 37.5% hold position of Officer I, II or III and or 37.5% indicated that they hold other positions not mentioned in the table. 90 QUESTION 2: EMPLOYEES YEARS OF SERVICE TABLE 2 Variables Respondents Percentage (%) Les then 3 yrs 10 25 4-6 years 7 17.5 7-9 years 10 25 10 years and above 13 32.5 Total 40 100 From the responses to question 2 in the questionnaire, table 2 indicates that 10 or 25% of the respondents have work under power holding company of Nigeria between 0 and 3 years 7 or 17.5% between 4-6 years, 10 or 25% between 7-9 years and 13 or 32.5% between 10 years and above. Question 7: Does the internal audit system ensure that operations comply with set policies and promote accuracy and reliability of transaction? 91 Table 3 Variables Respondents Percentage (%) Yes 40 100 Total 40 100 From the response to question 7 in the questionnaire in table 3, 40 respondents or 100% agreed that the internal audit system ensures that operation comply with set policies and promotes accuracy and reliability of translations. Question II: Are external/internal auditors independent of those whose function they appraise? Table 4 Variables Respondents Percentage (%) Yes 31 77.5 No 9 22.5 Total 40 100 From the response to the question 11 in the questionnaire. In table 4, 31 respondents or 77.5% agreed that 92 the internal/external auditors are independent of those whose functions they appraise i.e their employers only 9 or 22.5% respondents indicted otherwise. Question 13: The impact of internal control system on service delivery and revenue generation Table 5 Variables Respondents Percentage (%) Yes 35 87.5 No 5 12.5 Total 40 100 From the response to question 13 in the questionnaire. In table 35 respondents or 87.5% agreed that internal control system have some impact on service Delivery and revenue generation. It is evidenced that customers are provided with credible bills based on proper tariff for electricity consumed within the billing month and the expected revenue realized. The internal control system is effective and efficient. 5 respondents or 12.5% indicated other use they considered the internal control system to be ineffective and inefficient 93 Question 14: Internal control operational procedures Table 6: Variables Respondents Percentage (%) Yes 40 100 No - - Total 40 100 From response to question 14 in the questionnaire, in table 6, 40 respondents or 100% said that the accounting policies and operational procedures are set out in a manual. This clearly communicates specific responsibilities to individual staff; facilitate training of new staff and enable one to review and monitor the internal control system. Question 10: Evaluation of internal control system Variables Respondents Percentage (%) Yes 36 90 No 4 10 Total 40 100 94 From the response to question 10 in the questionnaire. In table 7, 36 respondents or 90% indicated that there has been periodic review and examination of the internal control system by an external auditor in the past. This helps in the effective assessment of the control activities and monitoring of the internal control system while 10 respondents or 10% stated otherwise. 4.2 TEST OF HYPOTHESIS In this section, the research hypotheses stated in the chapter one are tested. The statistical tool employed is chisquare (X2) as indicated in chapter three of this study. The hypothesis could be stated as thus 4.2.1 HYPOTHESIS ONE Ho 1: Effective internal control system does not ensure effective service delivery and desired revenue generation. Ha 1: Effective internal control system ensures effective service delivery and desired revenue generation. 95 TEST DATA: The data for the validation of the hypothesis above is presented below. COMPUTED X2 VALUE FOR HYPOTHESIS ONE Table 4.2.1 Response No of respondents Expected FO-FE (FO-FE)2 (FO-FE)2 variable (FO) freq (FE) Yes 35 20 15 225 11.25 No 5 20 -15 225 11.25 Total 40 40 0 450 22.5 FE From the response to question 13 in the questionnaire Decision: The table 4.2.1 shows that the computed X2 22.5 with 1 degree of freedom, that is (2-1) (2-1), the theoretical value of X2 at 5% level of significance is 3.84 which is less than the computed X2 This ensures implies effective generation that effective service internal delivery and control desired system revenue 96 4.2.2 HYPOTHESIS TWO Ho2: Weak internal control system does not encourage collusion fraud embezzlement, loss of cash (revenue) assets conversion and Corruption in power holding company of Nigeria PLC Ha2: weak internal control system encourages collusion, fraud, embezzlement, loss of cash (revenue), assets conversion and corruption in Power Holding Company of Nigeria PLC. TEST DATA: The data for the validation of the hypothesis above is presented below COMPUTED X2 VALUE FOR HYPOTHESIS TWO Table 4.2.2 Response No of respondents Expected FO-FE (FO-FE)2 (FO-FE)2 variable (FO) freq (FE) Yes 30 20 10 100 5 No 10 10 -10 100 5 Total 40 40 0 200 10 FE From the response to question 12 in the questionnaire DECISION: Table 4.2.2 shows that the computed X2 is 10 with 1 degree of freedom that is (2-1) (2-1) the theoretical value 97 of X2 at 5% level of significance is 3.84 which is less then the computed X2 level We therefore reject Ho2 and accept Ha 2 this implies that weak internal control system encourages collusion, fraud embezzlement, loss of revenue assets conversion Corruption in Power Holding Company of Nigeria PLC. and 98 CHAPTER FIVE SUMMARY OF FINDINGS CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS This chapter summarizes the findings draws conclusion and makes recommendation on this project entitled The impact of internal control system on revenue generation in Power Holding Company of Nigeria in Enugu State. 5.1 SUMMARY OF FINDINGS Based on the analysis of data collected and interpreted the research summaries the findings as follows: The internal control system in operation has some impact on service delivery and revenue generation. It was discovered that the company adopts various types and techniques of internal Control to satisfactorily meet customer electricity demand, provide credible bills based on proper tariff for electricity consumed within the billing month and therefore generate revenue. The company adopts measures, which ensures that no one individual can control both the recording function and the 99 procedure relative to processing a transaction thereby segregating their duties. Internal audit system at the company ensures that operations complies with set policies and promotes accuracy and reliability of transactions recorded. The study also revealed that opportunities for collusion, fraud, loss of revenue, embezzlement, assets conversion and corruption arises as a result of weak internal control system. Periodic evaluation of the internal control system by an external auditor is used to effectively access the control activities and detect fraudulent practices. 5.2 CONCLUSION The incidence of internal control system weaknesses have always impeded the ability of Power Holding Company of Nigeria in Enugu state to effectively supply electricity to her customers and therefore generate potential revenue. As such her contribution to the improvement of national goals and objectives is not very satisfactory. On the basis of the above the main objective of this study was to evaluate the internal control system in operation at 100 Power Holding Company of Nigeria in Enugu State and various points were made. Reveals that internal control system plays a major role in prudently managing the resources and funds entrusted to public sector managers. The company has an organizational structure denoted by organizational charts, which indicated formal communication patterns within the organization. RECOMMENDATIONS Having examined and evaluated the internal control system in operation at Power Holding Company of Nigeria PLC in Enugu state, the study makes the following recommendations. i. Internal control system and the investigating units at the company should be remodeled and strengthened to position them to discharge their duties effectively and efficiently. ii. The component sectors of the present corporate Power Holding Company of Nigeria should be unbundled into separate distinct independent entities that handle generation transmission, distribution and marketing. 101 iii. Secure a culture charge within the various cadres of staff that focuses on customer satisfaction, quality service rendition and transparency in service delivery and procurement process. iv. To continuously improve her service of provision of electricity of adequate quality to all customers and delivering credible bills to all customers within the billing month. The company should more to establish more customer care centers to mitigate complaints or wrong, billings, non receipts of bills disconnection improper address and wrong names. v. Prepayment meters should also be seen as an alternative to further accumulation of debts 5.4 SUGGESTIONS FOR FURTHER INVESTIGATION Having examined and evaluated the internal control system in operation at Power Holding Company of Nigeria PLC in Enugu State, the researcher suggests a further study on the effectiveness of debt profile in the company. 102 BIBLIOGRAPHY TEXT BOOKS Adeleke, J.O (2009). Audit Investigation and assurance Services. Bodnar, G. and William. S. (1998). Accounting Information Systems: Prentice Hall Upper Saddle, N Jersey, (7th Edition). Daniel, A. (1989). Accounting: London Pitman Press LTD. Defliese, P. (1975). Montgomery’s Auditing: New York, John Wiley and Sons INC. Eze, J.C. (2005). Principles and Techniques of auditing: J.T.C. Publishers. Eze, O. and Agbo, B. (2005). Research Method basic issues and methodology: Benalice publications. Hongreen, C. and Datar M. (2002). Cost Accounting A managerial Emphasis: new Delhi, Prentice Hall, (10th Edition). Igwenagu, C. (2006). Basic Statistics and Probability: Prince Press communication. Kari, V. (1989). Accounting Theory: California Hayward, July. 103 Louis, E.B. (1998). Principles of Management: Homewood, Richard D. Irwin Inc. Meigs, R. and Whittington, O. (1982). Principles of Auditing: Richard D. Irwin Inc. Homewood, Illinois (7th edition). Millichamp, A.H. (1992). Auditing: An Instructional Manual for Accounting Students: Elbs – Df. Publication LTD, London. Nwabueze, P. (2000). Basic principles of Auditing: m’cal Communications Intl. Oxford Accounting Dictionary (2005) University Press. JOURNALS American Institute of certified Public Accounts (2005). Audit Committee tool kit: New York Inc. Anoruo, C. (2004). Unbundling and its dynamics: NEPA News, March – May. County of Orange (2005). Understanding Internal Control: Internal Audit Department California March. Jenide, A. (2005). Understanding the Electric Power sector Reform Act: The Guardian Tuesday June 14. 104 NEPA (2004). Customer Service Charter: Webmaster @ PHCN Nigeria. NEPA (2004). The Fight against Corruption: NEPA review March – April. University of California (2003). Understanding Internal Control: A Reference Guide for Managing University Business Practices University of California. 105 Department of Accountancy Faculty of Management and Social Science Caritas University, Amorji Nike, Emene – Enugu P.M.B. 07184 Enugu Dear Sir/Madam, REQUEST FOR THE COMPLETION OF QUESTIONNAIRE I am a student of the Department of Accountancy, Caritas University carrying out a research study on the topic “ The impact of Internal control on revenue generation in Power Holding Company of Nigeria in Enugu State. I will be very grateful if you would complete the attached questionnaires to the best of your knowledge to enable me complete a successful research on he topic. Be assured that the information received will be used solely for this study. Thanks for your understanding and cooperation. Yours faithfully, OFOZIE ONYEKA .C. 106 APPENDIX QUESTIONNAIRE Dear Respondent, Please Tick {√} right where appropriate and supply additional information where necessary. 1. 2. 3. What position are you occupying? A. Senior Manager B. Manager C. Asst. Manager D. E. Others (Please specify) Officer 1,11,111 For how long have you held the position? A. Less then 3 years B. 4-6 years C. 7-9 years D. 10 years and above There is segregation of duties or separation of duties among the employees and such reduces the risks of both erroneous and inappropriate actions A. 4. Yes B. No Do you have an organization chart of the financial accounts department? A. Yes B. No 107 5. Are consumers provided with credible bills based on proper tariff for electricity consumed within the billing months? A. Yes 6. B. No C. Not always Are consumers able to authenticate any demand by staff of Power Holding Company of Nigeria for any form of payment for service materials, billings meter etc. A. 7. Yes B. No The Internal audit system ensures that operations comply with set policies and promote accuracy and reliability of transaction recording? A. 8. Yes B. No Do power Holding company of Nigeria realize full payment for timely, accurate and complete billing of electricity delivered? A. 9. Yes B. No Has there been any periodic review and evaluation of the past twelve months? A. Yes B. No 108 10. Based on your evaluation of the internal control system is it effective and efficient? A. Yes B. No 11. Are Internal/External Auditors Independent of those whose functions they appraise? A. Yes B. No 12. Collusion, fraud, embezzlement, loss of revenue, assist conversions and corruption arises in your as a result of internal control Weakness? A. Yes B. No 13. Does the Internal control System have any impact on service delivery and revenue generation? A. Yes B. No 14. Is the accounting and operational routines set out in an accounting mannual? A Yes B. No 15. Do your company maintain a system of regular and formal performance appraisal? A. Yes B. No 109 16. What in your opinion do you see as problems currently facing the internal system at Power Holding Company of Nigeria? State them. ………………………………………………………………………………. 17. What do you suggest as solution to the problems listed in No. 16. ………………………………………………………………………………