Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Rayyan Alhassan
Published on 2024-02-27 11:26:00
Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue recently inaugurated two judicial commissions of inquiry to investigate the administration of former Governor Samuel Ortom. The two commissions are the Benue Income and Expenditure Commission of Inquiry 2024 and the Sale/Lease of Government Assets Commission of Inquiry 2024.
During the inauguration ceremony, Governor Alia stated that the purpose of the inquiry was to promote transparency, accountability, and good governance. The Benue Income and Expenditure Commission of Inquiry is chaired by Rtd. Justice Taiwo with Dr. Abraham Gberindyer as Secretary, while the Sale/Lease of Government Assets Commission of Inquiry is chaired by Rtd. Justice Appolos Idi with John Edigbo as Secretary.
These commissions have been tasked with investigating the eight-year tenure of Samuel Ortom from May 2015 to May 2023. They have been given six months to submit their reports, in accordance with the Commission of Inquiry Law (Cap 40) Laws of Benue State, 2004.
Governor Alia emphasized that the investigative process is not merely bureaucratic, but a direct response to the wishes and expectations of the people of Benue, who are the ultimate stakeholders in the state and its resources. He highlighted the importance of prudent management of resources for the future prosperity of the state.
The governor stressed the need to ensure that every Naira spent serves the collective interest and contributes to the growth and development of Benue. The inquiry is aimed at scrutinizing the management of resources during Ortom’s administration to uphold principles of accountability, transparency, and good governance.
The Benue Income and Expenditure Commission of Inquiry will focus on identifying the income, expenditure, and utilization of funds accrued to the state government during the specified period. It will also examine state accounts, loans taken, special interventions like Bailout Funds and Paris Club Refunds, and cases of misappropriation or abuse of funds.
On the other hand, the Sale/Lease of Government Assets Commission of Inquiry will investigate the sale or lease of government properties, companies, and markets under Ortom’s administration. It will assess the status and value of these properties at the time of the transactions and provide recommendations for the government.
This is not the first time such investigations have been carried out in Benue State. In 2015, Governor Ortom initiated a probe into the administration of his predecessor, Sen. Gabriel Suswam.
Through these judicial commissions of inquiry, Governor Alia aims to uphold the principles of good governance, accountability, and transparency for the benefit of the people of Benue.
In conclusion, the investigative process initiated by Governor Alia underscores the commitment to ensuring responsible management of resources and safeguarding the interests of the people of Benue. It is a step towards fostering a culture of accountability and transparency in governance for the collective welfare and development of the state.
Read the original article on DailyNigerian.com
