Benue Road Contracts: CSO Demands Probe, Asks Gov Alia to Account for LG Funds
The Alliance for Truth and Democracy, (ATD), a civil society organisation, has called for an independent investigation into the award of road construction contracts across the 23 local government areas of Benue State, alleging irregularities in the implementation of the projects.
In a statement signed by its President, Jerome Zoho, the group urged Governor Hyacinth Alia to subject his administration to public scrutiny by disclosing details of government finances and procurement processes.
ATD claimed that the governor announced road contracts valued at ₦5 billion for each of the 23 local government areas, but alleged that contractors were reportedly offered only a fraction of the approved contract sums, resulting in the projects failing to commence.
The organisation argued that the development raises concerns about transparency, value for money, and compliance with procurement procedures.
The group also expressed concern over what it described as the absence of regular public disclosures on federal allocations, internally generated revenue (IGR), local government allocations, security vote expenditures, wage bills, and the state’s financial position since the current administration assumed office.
According to ATD, despite increased revenues accruing to Benue State through FAAC allocations and other sources, residents continue to face infrastructure deficits, insecurity, and economic hardship.
The organisation further referenced other government projects, including the Wurukum-Air Force Base road project, urging authorities to provide detailed explanations regarding project costs and implementation.
ATD called for a forensic audit of the local government road contracts, publication of procurement records, disclosure of financial allocations received by the state since May 2023, an audit of security expenditures, and investigations into allegations relating to the management of public funds.
The group stressed that public office is a public trust and urged the state government to promote openness and accountability in governance.
