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Local government workers across Benue State have been thrown into fresh panic following explosive allegations that massive funds meant for the 23 local government councils have been diverted, leaving many councils unable to pay salaries in the coming months.
In a strongly worded Facebook post addressed to local government staff, activist Asom D Jerry warned workers not to expect their salaries anytime soon. He claimed that Governor Hyacinth Alia’s administration has effectively crippled the financial capacity of all 23 local governments.
The latest controversy centers on the alleged diversion of over ₦4.6 billion through the Bureau for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs. According to the claims, the funds were siphoned under the guise of consultancy fees for auditing officials of the local governments, pensioners, and Primary Health Care workers across the state.
In addition to the ₦4.6 billion, two months’ allocations meant for the local governments were reportedly squandered to secure party structures, while overdrafts were also obtained from banks using the Local Governments Joint Account.
The named suspects in the alleged scam include Ayu Terna, Permanent Secretary of the Bureau; Bishop Dzungwe (also referred to as Bishop Ter Dzungwe), Director of Finance and Administration; and Abraham Gberindyer, Auditor for Local Government. The consultants allegedly involved are Abba Adaudu and Nongomi Ter Joshua.
The situation reportedly came to a dramatic head this past Monday when Directors of Local Government Administration (DGSAs) and Treasurers from all 23 councils were summoned to Fidelity Bank on Otukpo Road, Makurdi, for what was supposed to be a reconciliation of the Joint Account. While the officials were inside the bank allegedly attempting to cover up widespread financial misconduct, operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) stormed the premises.
EFCC officers seized computers and critical documents before sealing the bank. As a result, the Makurdi branch of Fidelity Bank remains shut, with no single computer or electronic device currently available in the branch.
This development is said to expose deep rot in the management of local government finances in the state. Workers, who are already struggling with delayed salaries, now face the grim prospect of further months without pay as the councils have been left financially drained.
The EFCC has been actively investigating the ₦4.6 billion matter, with several officials and consultants already grilled or detained in connection with the alleged diversion. The anti-graft agency’s raid on the bank has intensified scrutiny on how funds meant for grassroots development and worker welfare are being handled.
As investigations continue, local government staff in Benue State are left anxious and frustrated, bearing the brunt of yet another major financial scandal at the local government level. Many are now watching closely to see whether the EFCC probe will lead to concrete recoveries and accountability, or if the councils will remain paralysed for the foreseeable future.
