Benue Govt Orders Former Lobi Stars Officials to Refund N2.4bn

Benue Govt Orders Former Lobi Stars Officials to Refund N2.4bn

By Fly Cable News

The Benue State Government has directed three former vice chairmen of Lobi Stars Football Club in Makurdi to refund a total of N2.4 billion into the state’s coffers.

This decision follows a white paper report based on a forensic audit of the club’s finances between January 2020 and September 2024. The audit, which was initiated by Governor Hyacinth Alia on October 7, 2024, found discrepancies in the club’s income, revealing that while N3.7 billion was generated during the period, only N1.3 billion was accounted for.

The three former officials, Mike Idoko, Emmanuel Taman, and Dominic Iorfa, are each required to refund various amounts based on their respective tenures, with Idoko owing N243 million, Taman N434.3 million, and Iorfa N1.77 billion.

The audit committee recommended several measures to improve the club’s management, including registering Lobi Stars as a full company responsible for generating revenue and ensuring funds from sponsors are directly deposited into the club’s account. Additionally, it suggested the Ministry of Sports should no longer interfere in the club’s day-to-day operations.