Director General, Benue State Public Procurement Commission (BSPPC), Akwonya Adadu
By TYAV SAM TYAV, Makurdi –
The Director General, Benue State Public Procurement Commission (BSPPC), Akwonya Adadu, has denied allegation bothering on inflated contract sum for the Wurukum-Airforce base road dualization project.
Addressing the legislators during plenary at the Benue State House of Assembly, Adadu said the contract was approved at approximately N28 billion, contrary to media reports suggesting a N68 billion valuation.
The appearance and explanation before the Assembly became necessary following a summon to address public concerns over some ongoing state projects.
The media aide to the DG, George Nder also informed that the approved contract underwent proper procurement procedures in line with the Benue State Public Procurement Law, showing transparency and fairness.
But Hon. Bem Doo Ipusu during the session in his contribution, questioned the DG about a possible extension of the project from the Airforce Base to Tyomu, reportedly valued at N39 billion.
Adadu, while responding however, disclosed that her office was unaware of such an extension, as no such contract had been submitted to the Commission for evaluation or issuance of a Letter of No Objection. She insisted that only the Wurukum-Airforce Base contract had passed through due process, and that any additional works must follow the same legal and procedural path before gaining approval.
The DG, who appreciated Governor Hyacinth Alia led administration also praised his commitment to transparency and fiscal discipline, adding that the Commission remained dedicated to ensuring public funds are spent responsibly and for the benefit of the people.
She noted also that the State Assembly was firm to its oversight role in monitoring public expenditures and enforcing accountability in government projects.
In another development, the Benue State House of Assembly has summoned the Executive Secretary of the Benue State Primary Health Care Board to appear before it on Tuesday, April 15, 2025.
The summon of the Executive Secretary followed a motion of urgent public importance moved by Rt. Hon. Anthony Agom, who expressed concern over the lack of information regarding the number of renovated PHCs, selection criteria, total funding received, execution timeline, and project status.
The lawmaker lamented that lack of transparency may erode public trust and hinder the Assembly’s oversight function, ultimately depriving citizens of vital health infrastructure.
The Executive Secretary is expected to provide details on the World Bank-supported renovation of primary health centres across the state.
