Several senior officers of the Benue State Bureau for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, along with some consultants, are currently under investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over an alleged ₦4.6 billion fraud.
The officials were reportedly arrested about a week ago and are being held at the EFCC zonal office in Makurdi, the state capital. The anti-graft agency is probing the alleged misappropriation of ₦4.6 billion meant for the state’s 23 local government councils.
Preliminary investigations suggest the funds were allegedly diverted through consultants under the pretext of auditing local government staff, pensioners, Primary Healthcare workers, and personnel of the Local Government Education Authorities.
All 23 local government chairmen have reportedly been invited to explain their roles in the transaction, while directors of General Services and local government treasurers have already been questioned as part of the ongoing probe.
Speaking on condition of anonymity, a local government chairman said the audit exercise was initiated to address irregularities discovered during a joint council meeting. He explained that the auditors were engaged to review staff, pensioners, healthcare workers, and education personnel, with consultancy fees varying across councils depending on workload.
The chairman urged the public not to politicize the matter, describing the EFCC’s actions as part of a routine investigation, and praised the agency for its professionalism and respectful treatment of those invited.
Benue State Commissioner for Finance, Michael Oglegba, also confirmed the probe, emphasizing that the state government would not interfere and is cooperating fully with the EFCC. He reiterated the administration’s zero tolerance for corruption.
“Yes, funds were disbursed, but the investigation will determine if due process was followed. We are fully cooperating with the EFCC,” Oglegba said.
He further warned officials to strictly adhere to proper procedures, noting that Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia is committed to transparency and accountability. “Those in positions of authority must ensure that processes are followed correctly. This investigation must conclude properly so lessons can be learned,” he added.