By Lizzy Chirkpi
A Benue State Government Commission of Inquiry has alleged that about N139.8 billion in public funds cannot be accounted for during the administration of former Governor Samuel Ortom, recommending the recovery of the money from individuals found responsible.
The Chairman of the Benue State Income and Expenditure Commission of Inquiry, Justice Jubril Idrisu (retd), disclosed this on Friday while presenting the panel’s report to Governor Hyacinth Alia at the Government House in Makurdi.
According to the retired jurist, the commission’s investigation uncovered significant irregularities in the management of the state’s finances during the Ortom administration, which spanned from May 29, 2015, to May 28, 2023.
“The commission’s findings, contained in two volumes, revealed significant concerns in the management of public finances during the period under review.”
“Records showed that the state generated over N826.5 billion in revenue, while expenditure stood at about N683.4 billion, leaving an unaccounted balance of approximately N139.8 billion,” he said.
Justice Idrisu said the commission recommended that the alleged missing funds be recovered from those found culpable following further investigations and due process.
The commission, inaugurated in June 2025, was mandated to examine the income and expenditure profile of the immediate past state administration and the 23 local government councils in Benue State over the eight-year period.
Beyond the alleged financial discrepancy, the panel reported uncovering questionable loan transactions involving some local government councils and financial institutions.
According to the report, repayments on certain loans significantly exceeded the original amounts obtained, with inadequate documentation to justify the transactions.
The commission also identified what it described as irregular transfers of public funds to some financial institutions without sufficient records or evidence of legitimacy, recommending that the affected funds be recovered.
Justice Idrisu stressed the need for stronger financial management systems within the state’s public service to prevent future abuses.
He advocated stricter controls over electronic transactions, insisting that online payments should be properly authorised by designated officers. He also condemned the practice of issuing blank pre-signed payment mandates, warning that such procedures undermine transparency and accountability in public finance administration.
Alia Commends Panel’s Work
Receiving the report, Governor Hyacinth Alia reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and institutional reforms.
Represented by his deputy, Dr Sam Ode, the governor commended the commission for what he described as its dedication, courage, and thoroughness in carrying out its assignment.
He explained that Justice Idrisu was selected to lead the panel because of his reputation as “a fearless jurist and a man of integrity,” expressing confidence that the commission’s findings would contribute to strengthening governance and financial accountability in the state.
The Benue State Government has yet to announce the specific measures it intends to take regarding the commission’s recommendation for the recovery of the alleged N139.8 billion.
The report is expected to generate significant public and political interest as authorities consider the next steps on the panel’s findings and recommendations.