From Scholastica Hir, Makurdi
The Benue State government has disclosed that it generates, at least, a total sum of N1.2 billion as revenue monthly.
The Chief Press Secretary to Governor Hyacinth Alia, Mr Tersoo Kula, stated this while briefing newsmen in Makurdi, on Thursday.
Kula said, “The Governor Hyacinth Alia’s administration has nothing to hide. The Governor has always said that it is the people’s money and they have the right to know.
“The sum of N1.2billion is generated every month by the Benue State Internal Revenue Service (BIRS) and the amount is outside of PAYEE.”
Governor Alia’s spokesman said his boss has continued to use the monies for salary payment and for for projects saying the government will ensure that the people reap the dividends of democracy.
He however explained that the immediate past administration took a lot of loans which reduces the amount of monies available to Government as the various banks deduct their monies from source from the federal accrual into the state’s purse.
“So, what the government gets (leftovers after loans deduction) at the end of the month which is little is what it adds up to the monthly generated revenue to do projects you see all over the state,” he said.
Speaking further, Kula debunked allegation that state government is expending the sum of 44 billion to construct underpass at High level section of Makurdi, the State capital.
He described the allegation as ‘false and misleading’ saying whoever concocted such for whatever reason goofed.
He explained that the contract was originated as far back as November, 2023 at the Ministerial tender board, adding that on the 3rd November, publication for bidding was done and on 22nd December, 2023 submission on tender commenced.
Kula said, bid for contract opened on 23 December,2023 with Bauhaus Global Investment Nigeria Ltd known to deliver quality job getting the contract.
“The sum of the contract is 6 billion naira not even close to 10 billion naira not to talk of 44 billion naira. An underpass is meant to construct another road. It was captured properly in the budget.
“The initial bill of 9 billion naira was projected for the Wurukum underpass until the governor approached the President and the Minister for Works. The minister David Umahi approved and awarded it for 20 billion naira. The underpass is to decongest and beautify the State capital. Discussions are still on with those whose structures or land are been affected by the construction work. Valuation is ongoing”.
“Benue people are grateful to the President and Minister for Works Dave Umahi for the approval for construction of a flyover and many other projects ahead.