By Isaac Akerele
Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia announced Tuesday, the establishment of two judicial commissions of inquiry to investigate the administration of former Governor, Mr. Samuel Ortom.
The commissions, namely the Benue Income and Expenditure Commission of Inquiry 2024 and the Sale/Lease of Government Assets, Companies, and Markets Moribund Companies Commission of Inquiry 2024, were unveiled formally by the Governor on Tuesday.
Rtd Justice Taiwo has been appointed as the Chairman of the Income and Expenditure Inquiry Commission, with Dr. Abraham Gberindyer serving as Secretary. Rtd Justice Appolos Idi will lead the Assets and Moribund Companies Inquiry Commission, supported by John Edigbo as Secretary.
According to the Governor, the commission will spearhead an investigation into the eight-year tenure of Mr. Samuel Ortom from May 29, 2015, to May 28, 2023, to encourage prudent and judicious management of Benue State resources.
The governor made it clear that the probe was not merely bureaucratic but a response to the legitimate expectations of the citizens of Benue who hold a vested interest in the proper use of state funds. He further stated that the commission was constituted according to the Commission of Inquiry Laws of Benue State, 2004.
The commission is expected to deliver its reports within six months.
