Probe Panel Indicts Past Benue Administration Over N139.8bn Unaccounted Funds

An investigative commission of inquiry established by the Benue State Government to review state finances between 2015 and 2023 has uncovered approximately N139.8 billion in unaccounted public funds. The Chairman of the commission, retired Justice Jubril Idrisu, disclosed the development while presenting the panel’s official report to Governor Hyacinth Alia, who was represented by Deputy Governor Dr. Sam Ode, at the Government House in Makurdi.

The commission’s findings, compiled across two volumes, detailed significant irregularities in public financial management during the eight-year period under review.

According to financial records analyzed by the panel, Benue State generated over N826.5 billion in total revenue, while recorded expenditures stood at roughly N683.4 billion, leaving an unexplained deficit of N139.8 billion. The commission has formally recommended the full recovery of these missing assets from the individuals deemed responsible.

Initially inaugurated in June 2025, the judicial panel was specifically tasked with auditing the income, expenditures, and allocations of the immediate past state administration as well as all 23 local government councils from May 29, 2015, to May 28, 2023.

Beyond the baseline revenue discrepancies, investigators flagged several highly irregular transactions, including questionable credit accounts involving specific financial institutions where total loan repayments far exceeded the principal amounts without supporting documentation. Investigators also identified a pattern of irregular public fund transfers made to certain financial entities that completely lacked administrative records or proof of legitimacy.

Furthermore, the report criticized past systemic vulnerabilities, such as the authorized use of blank, pre-signed mandates and a lack of proper verification for online transactions, noting that such practices severely compromised public accountability.

Receiving the report, the administration commended the panel for its thoroughness and resilience despite encountering resistance and a lack of cooperation from certain institutions and individuals during the probe.

The state leadership reaffirmed its commitment to implementing the panel’s recommendations to recover the state’s assets, strengthen public financial institutions, and ensure strict accountability for anyone implicated in the financial mismanagement.

The administration stated that the comprehensive report will serve as an essential blueprint for structural transparency and the restoration of public trust in Benue State’s governance.