The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is investigating Benue State Governor Samuel Ortom and many members of the House of Assembly for alleged diversion of N23, 088, 586, 206.
But the governor said last night that he had no fear over the probe. He demanded fairness.
About N22, 713, 586, 206 was withdrawn in cash, allegedly on the governor’s instruction as security votes and other “curious” overheads.
The Assembly members are expected to account for N375million.
The anti-graft agency said some of the cash withdrawals were made in bits of N10million over the counter.
The EFCC found it “ridiculous” that 500million was cashed in one day.
Besides the governor, more than 30 suspects are being investigated. They include 21 members of the House, three permanent secretaries, four cashiers, a contractor, directors of Finance, some accountants, and bank managers.
The EFCC believes that most of the funds were diverted, with, according to the agency, the governor directing permanent secretaries to tear the disbursement lists.