Governor Alia Spends N706M on Honorariums as Debt Soars to N122B

Benue State’s total debt profile has risen to N122 billion under the administration of Governor Hyacinth Alia, according to newly released fiscal records. The development has sparked concern among policy analysts and civil society groups following revelations that the state government spent a total of N706 million on honorariums, sitting allowances, and welfare packages within a short period.

The financial disclosures, drawn from official state documents and budget reports, indicate that Governor Alia’s administration has increased the state’s domestic debt to N122 billion as of the most recent assessment. This figure includes liabilities accrued from loans, contractor debts, and other financial obligations tied to the state’s recurrent and capital expenditures.

Of particular concern is the significant allocation of public funds toward non-essential expenses such as honorariums and sitting allowances for officials. According to the expenditure breakdown, a total of N706 million was spent on these items, which some critics argue do not directly contribute to service delivery or infrastructure development in the state.

Governor Alia, who assumed office in May 2023 under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has previously emphasized fiscal discipline and the need to reposition Benue State for economic growth. However, the latest figures have raised questions about the government’s spending priorities and transparency.

The breakdown of the N706 million shows that large portions were allocated for sitting allowances for committees and honorariums paid to individuals for various undisclosed services. A portion of the funds was also used for welfare packages for select government personnel. Analysts have pointed out that in a state grappling with a backlog of unpaid salaries, pension arrears, and poor infrastructure, such expenditure may be perceived as extravagant.

Reacting to the report, opposition figures and watchdog organizations have called on the Benue State government to clarify the rationale behind the expenditures and provide a detailed accounting of how the funds were disbursed. They argue that public spending must be aligned with the core needs of the population, especially in a state facing significant socio-economic challenges.

Benue State has long faced fiscal challenges, with high levels of domestic debt and a dependency on federal allocations. The increase in the debt profile under Governor Alia has reignited debates around public financial management, debt sustainability, and accountability in governance.

Efforts to contact the Benue State Ministry of Finance for clarification were unsuccessful at the time of reporting, and no official statement has been released by the governor’s media team regarding the debt figures or the spending breakdown.

Some civil society groups, including the Benue Transparency and Accountability Network (BTAN), have vowed to petition the state assembly to demand a public hearing on the matter. They argue that the state government must demonstrate responsibility in the use of public funds and ensure that every naira spent translates to improved services and development for the citizens.

Governor Alia’s administration is now under increased scrutiny as the public demands answers and assurances that the rising debt will not hinder the state’s ability to fund key sectors such as education, healthcare, agriculture, and infrastructure. With critics pointing to the N706 million in allowances as an example of misplaced priorities, there is growing pressure on the government to realign its fiscal strategy with the urgent needs of the population.

As fiscal tensions mount, political observers warn that continued financial missteps could affect public trust in the Alia administration and influence political dynamics in the state ahead of future elections. For now, stakeholders await a comprehensive explanation from the government on how it intends to address the rising debt burden while ensuring fiscal responsibility going forward.