The Benue State Commissioner for Finance, Hon. Michael Oglebga, was reportedly detained yesterday at the Nigeria Police Force Headquarters, Louis Edet House, Abuja, in connection with an unresolved payment of ₦1.2 billion for vehicles supplied to the Benue State House of Assembly.
According to sources, the vehicle dealer supplied seven official cars for Assembly members, a Toyota Hilux for the Clerk of the House, and a bus for the Assembly’s use. Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia had earlier approved the ₦1.2 billion for the purchases and explicitly directed the Finance Commissioner to ensure prompt payment to the supplier.
The detention stems from the dealer’s complaint that, despite the governor’s approval and directive, the funds have not been released, prompting intervention by security agencies. The matter has now escalated to the Force Headquarters for investigation.
Governor Alia, upon being briefed on the development, expressed deep shock and dissatisfaction, stating that the prolonged delay in concluding the transaction raises serious questions. “Something is not adding up. Someone is lying and we will know who very soon,” the governor was quoted as saying.
Investigations into the circumstances surrounding the non-payment are currently ongoing, with authorities expected to determine whether administrative lapses, procedural bottlenecks, or other factors contributed to the delay.
The development has sparked concern among political observers and residents, who are closely watching how the matter unfolds amid the state government’s emphasis on transparency and accountability in public expenditure. The outcome of the probe is anticipated to clarify the sequence of events and identify any irregularities in the handling of the approved funds.
As inquiries continue, both the state government and relevant security agencies have yet to issue formal detailed statements on the commissioner’s status or the progress of the investigation.
