Benue investigation finds N139.8 bn missing, recommends recovery

A commission set up by the Benue State Government to examine the state’s finances from 2015 to 2023 has found that roughly N139.8 billion in public funds could not be accounted for.

Retired Justice Jubril Idrisu, chair of the Benue State Income and Expenditure Commission of Inquiry, announced the findings on Friday as he presented the panel’s report to Governor Hyacinth Alia at the Government House in Makurdi.

Idrisu explained that the commission determined Benue State generated over N826.5 billion during the eight‑year period, while total spending was about N683.4 billion.

He added that the gap between revenue and expenditure left an unexplained balance of about N139.8 billion, and the commission urged that the amount be recovered from those found liable.

“The commission’s findings, compiled in two volumes, highlighted significant concerns in the management of public finances during the period under review.”

“Records indicated that the state generated more than N826.5 billion in revenue, while expenditure was about N