Benue state government probes alleged diversion of N44b by Suswam’s govt

Samuel Ortom

Benue State government has commenced investigation into the N44 billion allegedly diverted by the immediate past administration of Gabriel Suswam.

The state governor, Samuel Ortom, disclosed this during the thanksgiving mass organised in honour of Stephen Tyochir, the member representing Gwer East in the House of Assembly at St. Ignatius Catholic Mission, Ukpo-Ayar, Mbalom.

Ortom said the decision to investigate the alleged diversion of the money followed the report and white paper issued by the Justice Elizabeth Kpojime-led judicial commission of inquiry, which urged his administration to carry out further inquiry.

He said the N450 million the state government requested former Governor Gabriel Suswam to refund because he inappropriately received it as ‘overhead arrears’ was part of the N44 billion under investigation.

He reaffirmed the commitment of his administration to transparency and accountability, stressing that the battle against corruption would be won.

Ortom described Stephen Tyochir as a hardworking lawmaker and assured the people of Mbalom that the road, which passes through their area and other villages would be constructed.

Earlier, the Speaker, Benue State House of Assembly, Terkimbi Ikyange, sued for patience and understanding, assuring people of the state that the current administration would not disappoint them.

He said the present economic challenges would be tackled.Tyochir thanked God and called on individuals and groups to support the efforts being made to build a befitting church in the area.