EFCC detains Benue officials, consultants over alleged N4.6bn fraud

Some senior officials of the Benue State Bureau for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, together with several consultants, are reportedly in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission following allegations of a N4.6bn financial scandal.

Findings indicate that the individuals, arrested roughly a week earlier, are still being held at the EFCC’s Makurdi zonal headquarters. 

The anti-graft agency is probing claims that the sum, allegedly earmarked for the state’s local government councils, was diverted.

Sources disclosed that the funds were supposedly drained through consultant channels, presented as payments for auditing staff, pensioners, Primary Healthcare workers, and employees of the Local Government Education Authorities across all 23 councils.

It was also learnt that the chairmen of the 23 local governments have been summoned to explain their involvement, while Directors of General Services and Treasurers have already undergone questioning.

A local government chairman, who requested not to be named, confirmed that investigators were looking into consultancy fees which amount to N4.6bn.

He stated, “The decision to approve the audit of the local governments was taken because of the rot we met on ground. 

The resolution was reached during our joint meeting,” explaining that auditors were hired to scrutinise the workforce across all local government areas.

According to him, the auditors began work roughly two weeks earlier and were still active in multiple councils at the time of reporting. He noted that the consultancy fees differed from council to council due to differences in workload.

He also urged the public to avoid reading political motives into the probe, insisting that the EFCC was simply carrying out its routine duties. He said those invited had so far been treated with courtesy.

Benue State Commissioner for Finance, Michael Oglegba, also acknowledged the ongoing investigation, stressing that the state administration would not obstruct the EFCC’s work.

Oglegba said, “I am aware of the situation, and the government is also aware. Because of our zero tolerance for anything that is not straightforward, we have allowed the process to continue.”

He further promised transparency, adding that the EFCC would release its findings once the investigation concludes.

He reiterated, “Yes, there is an allegation. Yes, monies were paid for the process. The investigation is to determine whether the payments were properly made and whether due process was followed. We are fully cooperating with the anti-graft agency.”

The commissioner also reminded government workers of the administration’s strict adherence to due process, noting that Governor Hyacinth Alia insists on accountability.

He cautioned, “Those in positions of authority must understand that the governor wants things done properly. 

That is why the government has been able to minimise waste and improve expenditure. This investigation must end properly so lessons can be learnt.”

As of the time this report was compiled, the officials held by the EFCC were said to be working on meeting their bail conditions.