Uneasy calm as Benue Gov’t moves to unfreeze accounts

From Uche Nnorom, Makurdi

The Benue State government said it has put measures in place to remove all restrictions placed on all her accounts.
Our correspondent reports that the State accounts have been frozen since May 29, 2023 by Governor Hyacinth Alia.
Also, the State Assembly at it plenary on Thursday, called on the Governor to immediately unfreeze the State accounts for the smooth running of Ministry, Departments and Agencies.
But, in response to the State Assembly’s call, the Governor through his Chief Press Secretary, Kula Tersoo stated that the decision of government to freeze the accounts was necessitated by the genuine aim to protect government assets and to instill much needed accountability in public expenditure.
He noted that the singular move saved the state a lot of money, freeing up much-needed resources for use in the interest of Benue people.
According to him, the Governor has instructed the Ministry of Finance to take action towards unfreezing the account, averring that it will be completed as soon as possible.
“The Ministry of Finance will be providing updates on this and other matters relating to fiscal responsibility, public procurement and financial reporting to the public soon.
“We are grateful for the understanding and support of the civil service and the good people of our dear state.
“In another positive development, the Executive Governor of Benue state, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia has constituted a committee to review the minimum wage and make recommendations to the government.
“ The committee is headed by the Secretary to the state government, Prof. Joseph Alakali with the Head of Service and several heads of MDAs as members.
“The committee has since held its inaugural meeting and will be collaborating with organized labour.
“The government of Benue state is conscious of the economic challenges the nation is experiencing and will do its best to provide its citizens succour in the prevailing circumstances”, the statement read.