A Commission of Inquiry established by the Benue State Government to investigate the state’s financial activities between May 29, 2015, and May 28, 2023, has revealed that approximately N139.8 billion remains unaccounted for in the state’s financial records.
The Chairman of the Benue State Income and Expenditure Commission of Inquiry, Justice Jubril Idrisu, disclosed the findings on Friday while presenting the commission’s report to Governor Hyacinth Alia at the Government House in Makurdi.
According to the report, Benue State generated over N826.5 billion in revenue during the eight-year period under review, while total expenditure was put at about N683.4 billion. The commission noted that the difference between both figures, estimated at N139.8 billion, could not be properly accounted for.
Justice Idrisu said the commission recommended that the missing funds be recovered from individuals found culpable through appropriate legal and administrative processes.
The commission, inaugurated in June 2025, was tasked with examining the financial activities of the immediate past administration and the 23 local government councils in the state.
Beyond the issue of the unaccounted funds, the panel raised concerns over loan transactions involving some local government councils and financial institutions. It reported that in several instances, loan repayments exceeded the original amounts borrowed, while relevant documentation supporting the transactions was either inadequate or unavailable.
The commission also identified what it described as questionable transfers of public funds to financial institutions without sufficient records to establish the legitimacy of the transactions.
To enhance transparency and accountability in public finance management, the panel recommended stricter financial controls, including stronger authorization procedures for online transactions and an end to the use of blank pre-signed mandates.
Receiving the report on behalf of Governor Alia, Deputy Governor Dr. Sam Ode commended the commission for carrying out what he described as a diligent and courageous assignment in the public interest.
He reiterated the administration’s commitment to transparency, accountability and institutional reforms, expressing confidence that implementation of the recommendations would strengthen governance and curb the misuse of public resources.
Governor Alia also acknowledged the challenges encountered by the commission during its investigation, including difficulties in obtaining information from some individuals and institutions. He assured members of the panel that their report would serve as a critical guide in the government’s efforts to improve financial management and restore public confidence in state institutions.
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