Benue Probe Panel Alleges N139.8bn Unaccounted Funds During Ortom’s Tenure
A Judicial Commission of Inquiry established by the Benue State Government has alleged that N139.8 billion in public funds could not be accounted for during the administration of former Governor Samuel Ortom between 2015 and 2023.
The allegation is contained in a report presented on Friday to Governor Hyacinth Alia in Makurdi by the Chairman of the Benue State Income and Expenditure Commission of Inquiry, Justice Jubril Idrisu (retd.).
The commission was inaugurated in February 2024 by Governor Alia to investigate the management of the state’s finances, assets, and expenditures under the immediate past administration.
Presenting the report, Idrisu said the panel’s findings indicated that Benue State generated more than N826.5 billion in revenue during the eight-year period under review, while total expenditure stood at about N683.4 billion.
According to him, the figures revealed an alleged unaccounted balance of approximately N139.8 billion, which the commission recommended should be recovered from individuals found responsible.
He said the findings, contained in two volumes, raised significant concerns over the management of public finances during the period under investigation.
The commission also alleged that it uncovered questionable loan transactions involving some financial institutions and local government councils, including instances where loan repayments reportedly exceeded the original amounts borrowed without adequate documentation.
Idrisu further stated that investigators identified irregular transfers of public funds to certain financial institutions without sufficient records or evidence of legitimacy, recommending appropriate recovery measures where necessary.
Responding to the report, Governor Alia, represented by his deputy, Dr. Sam Ode, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and institutional reforms.
The governor commended the commission for what he described as a painstaking assignment carried out in the public interest, noting that Justice Idrisu was chosen to head the panel because of his reputation for integrity and courage.
Alia said the implementation of the commission’s recommendations would strengthen public institutions, curb the misuse of government resources, and ensure accountability where necessary.
He also acknowledged the challenges encountered by the commission, including difficulties in obtaining information and cooperation from some individuals and institutions.
The governor further apologised for logistical constraints experienced by the panel, explaining that his administration inherited significant institutional and administrative challenges upon assuming office.
Source: TheCable