By Monsurat Abisoye
A commission set up by the Benue State Government to review the state’s finances between 2015 and 2023 has reported that about N139.8 billion in public funds could not be properly accounted for.
The Chairman of the Benue State Income and Expenditure Commission of Inquiry, retired Justice Jubril Idrisu, disclosed this on Friday while presenting the panel’s findings to Governor Hyacinth Alia at the Government House in Makurdi.
According to the report, the state generated more than N826.5 billion within the eight-year period under review, while total expenditure stood at approximately N683.4 billion. The commission said the difference, amounting to about N139.8 billion, remained unexplained and should be recovered from individuals found responsible.
Idrisu explained that the findings, contained in two volumes, raised serious concerns about public financial management under the previous administration and across the 23 local government councils from May 29, 2015, to May 28, 2023.
The panel also uncovered questionable loan transactions involving some local councils and financial institutions, including instances where loan repayments allegedly exceeded the original amounts borrowed without proper documentation. It further identified irregular transfers of public funds to certain financial institutions, where supporting records were either insufficient or unavailable, recommending recovery actions where necessary.
Justice Idrisu stressed the need for stronger financial controls, urging authorities to ensure that online transactions are authorised by designated officials and to discontinue the practice of issuing blank, pre-signed financial mandates, which he said undermines transparency and accountability.
Receiving the report on behalf of the governor, Deputy Governor Dr Sam Ode reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and institutional reform. He commended the commission for what he described as a thorough and courageous investigation in the interest of the people of Benue State.
Ode said Justice Idrisu was selected to head the panel due to his reputation for integrity and fearlessness, adding that implementing the recommendations would strengthen institutions, reduce financial mismanagement, and ensure accountability for anyone found culpable.
He acknowledged challenges faced by the commission, including limited cooperation and difficulty accessing information from some individuals and institutions, but praised its members for remaining focused on their assignment.
Governor Alia also apologised for logistical difficulties experienced by the panel, noting that his administration inherited significant administrative and institutional challenges. He assured that the report would guide ongoing reforms aimed at rebuilding public trust and strengthening accountability in governance.
He added that future generations would regard the report as an important contribution to improving transparency and responsible management of public resources in Benue State.
