Audit Reveals Extravagant Expenditure by Nigerian States, Raises Concerns.
Audit report, has disclosed that several Nigerian states, including Benue, Borno, Cross Rivers, Delta, Ebonyi, Ekiti, Enugu, Gombe, Imo, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Kwara, and Kogi, have spent exorbitant amounts on what seems to be frivolous items, sparking concerns about the potential mismanagement or diversion of public funds.
The Benue State government reportedly allocated a staggering N34.44 billion for various expenditures categorized as ‘special day celebrations,’ ‘welfare packages,’ ‘security votes,’ and materials and supplies, including office stationery and books.
Similarly, other states were not immune to extravagant spending. Borno, Cross Rivers, Delta, Ebonyi, and Ekiti were reported to have spent N32.63 billion, N43.71 billion, N152.15 billion, N30.91 billion, and N31.33 billion, respectively, on items such as local and international travel, transportation, miscellaneous expenses, welfare packages, refreshments, honorarium, and sitting allowances.
The audit findings also revealed that both Enugu and Gombe states spent N33.36 billion and N24.73 billion on what is deemed frivolous items, raising concerns about potential mismanagement or diversion of public funds.
Imo State, according to the report, utilized N58.21 billion on refreshments and meals, welfare packages, and other allowances. Jigawa State reportedly spent N49.64 billion on transport and traveling, as well as materials and supplies, including drugs, vaccines, medical supplies, and stationery.
Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Kwara, and Kogi states were also implicated in the report, with expenditures of N27.87 billion, N17.79 billion, N40.49 billion, N24.51 billion, N41.19 billion, and N58.02 billion, respectively, on what appears to be extravagant items. Concerns have been raised regarding the potential mismanagement of public funds in these states.
As citizens express dismay over these revelations, calls for increased transparency and accountability in the handling of public funds are gaining momentum. The audit report raises questions about the priorities of these states and underscores the need for thorough scrutiny and oversight to ensure responsible financial management.
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