Benue State governor, Hyacinth Alia, has inaugurated two judicial commissions of inquiry into the income, expenditure, sales/lease of government assets, companies and markets belonging to both the state and local governments.
The probe panels will also look into the affairs and management of some moribund companies from May 29, 2015 to May 28, 2023.
Performing the inauguration of the commissions yesterday at the Old Banquet Hall of the Government House, Makurdi, the governor said it was incumbent upon his administration to ensure that every naira expended serves the collective interest and propel the growth and development of the state.
He said, “The Judicial Commission of Inquiry into the Income and Expenditure of Benue State Government from May 29, 2015 to May 28, 2023 is headed by Justice Taiwo Taiwo (rtd) while the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into the Sale/Lease of Government Assets, Companies and Markets both State and Local Government-owned Markets as well as Moribund Companies from May 29, 2015 to May 28, 2023, is headed by Justice Paul Idi (rtd).”
Alia said, “The future prosperity of Benue hinges on the prudent and judicious management of our resources.
As we usher in a new era characterized by prioritizing the welfare of our people, it is imperative and quite incumbent upon us to ensure that every Naira expended serves the collective interest and propels the growth and development of our state.
“In our pursuit of good governance, we prioritize inclusivity and fairness, ensuring that the needs of all stakeholders are duly considered. Responsible management and ethical utilization of resources are non-negotiable tenets of this governance philosophy.
“Thus, it is incumbent on us to scrutinize the management of our common resources during the specified periods. This inquiry is not rooted in distrust but in our commitment to the principles of accountability, transparency, and good governance, and it is imperative for safeguarding the interests of the people of Benue.
“I want to urge the members of these commissions to recognize the gravity of their mandate. Your diligence and dedication will be pivotal in unraveling the complexities of the task at hand, and the goodwill of the Benue people shall serve as your guiding light.”
The governor said members of the commissions were carefully chosen for their unassailable integrity and track record, adding that “I harbour no doubt that they will discharge their duties with utmost dedication and in accordance with the noble principles of public service, safeguarding the interests of our dear state.”
Other members of the Commission of Inquiry on the Income and Expenditure of Government Funds include Chief John Ochoga, Henry Tor, Tom Ujah, Ode Igbade Nick, Iorpenda Tarnguhar and Terfa Gbande, as members while Barr. Ajinge Sar, Dr. Abraham Gberindyer serve as government counsel and secretary, respectively.
The Commission of Inquiry on the Sale of Assets, Companies and Markets from (2015-2023) has Clement Nenge Beetse, John Ogah, Dr. Terungwa Adzende and Hon. Abraham Atotse and Victor Nyamtamen as members with John Edigbo as secretary.
In their separate responses Justices Taiwo and Idi expressed their readiness to work in line with the terms of reference given to them to justify the confidence reposed in them.
