How N4.6bn Meant For Benue Councils Was Allegedly Siphoned – EFCC

James Adamu

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission is currently conducting a detailed investigation into the alleged diversion of N4.6 billion earmarked for the 23 local government councils in Benue State.

The probe has led to the detention of several principal officers from the Benue State Bureau for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, along with a number of consultants, at the EFCC zonal office in Makurdi.

According to report, the officials were taken into custody about a week ago and remain held as the investigation continues.

The focus of the inquiry is on funds reportedly meant for local government operations, which were allegedly siphoned through consultancy fees. These fees were purportedly paid to auditors engaged to verify the records of local government staff, pensioners, Primary Healthcare workers, and Local Government Education Authority personnel across all 23 councils in the state.

It was further learned that the EFCC has extended invitations to all 23 local government chairmen to provide explanations regarding their involvement in the matter. Directors of General Services and Treasurers from the councils have already been questioned by the anti-graft agency.

The report confirmed that a local government chairman, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, explained that the decision to audit the local governments was taken collectively during a joint meeting to address systemic issues inherited by the current administration.

He stated that the auditors were engaged approximately two weeks ago and are still carrying out their duties in several councils. The chairman noted that the amount paid for consultancy services varied from council to council, depending on the scope of work required. He described the EFCC’s actions as a routine investigation and praised the professionalism exhibited by the commission throughout the process.

In a statement confirming the state government’s awareness of the situation, the Benue State Commissioner for Finance, Michael Oglegba, emphasised that the administration would not interfere with the EFCC’s work.

He reiterated the government’s zero-tolerance stance toward corruption and confirmed full cooperation with the investigation.

Oglegba explained that the probe seeks to determine whether the payments made for the audit exercise followed due process and were justified.

He warned all public officials to adhere strictly to established procedures, noting that Governor Hyacinth Alia insists on transparency and proper conduct in all government activities.

The commissioner added that the administration’s commitment to accountability has enabled it to reduce waste and improve fiscal management, and he expressed hope that the investigation would conclude with clear lessons for all involved.

As of the latest reports, the detained officials were in the process of meeting their bail conditions. The EFCC has not issued an official statement on the matter, but sources indicate that the investigation is progressing and may lead to further actions depending on the findings.