Benue Governor Ignores Promises, Approves N2 Billion for Lavish Vehicle Procurement

In stark contrast to his initial pledge of fiscal prudence, Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has authorized the expenditure of N2.04 billion for the acquisition of vehicles for himself, his deputy, House of Assembly members, and other government officials, Aso Naija Reports.

This extravagant spending stands in direct defiance of the state’s dire economic realities and the governor’s own assurances of responsible governance.

Sahara Reporters obtained financial records that reveal the approval of this hefty sum on September 5, 2023. This allocation represents just one instance of Governor Alia’s questionable spending habits, which have reportedly totaled over N40 billion in a mere five months.

The leaked documents outline the payment of N2,040,780,000 to MBS Inv. and Prop. Ltd for the procurement of vehicles for the aforementioned officials.

Intriguingly, this payment is accompanied by a baffling instruction to “deduct 1% processing fee and all relevant taxes,” raising concerns about potential irregularities in the transaction.

Furthermore, the documents detail the disbursement of N2,760,018,000 to Lajec Engineering Services Ltd for the purchase of refurbished Hummer 2/3 buses and used Toyota Hilux 2018/2019 model vehicles.

This allocation, ostensibly intended for palliative measures and security purposes, further underscores the governor’s disregard for the state’s pressing needs.

Benue Governor Alia’s extravagant spending spree has not gone unnoticed. Sources within the state government have expressed dismay over the governor’s blatant disregard for his initial promises of fiscal restraint.

They lament that while the governor lives in opulence, the state’s residents grapple with poverty and underdevelopment.

The governor’s actions have sparked widespread outrage among Benue residents, who question the justification for such exorbitant expenditures amidst the state’s financial woes. Critics argue that these funds could have been better utilized to address the state’s critical infrastructure, healthcare, and education sectors.

Governor Alia’s decision to prioritize personal luxuries over the well-being of his constituents paints a disheartening picture of his priorities. His actions raise serious concerns about his commitment to transparency, accountability, and responsible governance.