The utilization of the N93bn bond secured by the Benue State Governor, Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia, is primarily focused on infrastructure development, as stated during a recent announcement.
During a town hall meeting organized by the Special Advisers in collaboration with the state Ministry of Information, Deputy Governor Sam Ode revealed that the funds would be allocated towards addressing security concerns and advancing various infrastructure projects within the state.
Despite the government’s intentions, the revelation sparked criticism from a group called Defenders of Democracy, alleging that the state was accumulating significant debt burdens.
Amos Uchiv, the group’s President, expressed concern over the state government acquiring a total of N133bn in loans within a short period under the current administration.
The statement by the group questioned the necessity of taking on additional loans, especially given the substantial federal allocations received by the state, emphasizing the need for prudence in financial management.
In response, Governor Alia’s Chief Press Secretary, Kula Tersoo, defended the transparency of the bond acquisition process and assured that the funds would be dedicated solely to infrastructure projects to prevent any misuse.
Tersoo highlighted ongoing construction projects across various local government areas in the state as evidence of the prudent utilization of allocated funds, emphasizing the government’s commitment to effectively managing resources for the benefit of the populace.