*Silence on ₦2.1 Billion SUBEB Refund Raises Questions on Selective Justice
By Morgan Adikwu
Governor Hyacinth Alia’s demand for over ₦2.45 billion refund from Lobi Stars’ former vice chairmen, particularly Dominic Iorfa, reeks of political vendetta rather than justice. The recent White Paper on the club’s finances might appear to address accountability, but many political observers have decried it as a weaponized move against perceived opponents.
Iorfa, a sports administrator, is now in the crosshairs due to his association with Chief John Akperanshi, a political opponent of Alia. A harmless post showing both men at a social event seems to have triggered the government’s sudden push for a refund. Critics argue this selective action exposes Alia’s vindictive streak, marking him as politically immature.
While Iorfa faces a demand for accountability, the silence over the ₦2.1 billion unaccounted for by SUBEB Chairperson Dr. Grace Adagba raises serious concerns. Despite the Benue State House of Assembly directing her to refund the funds, the government remains mute. Observers call this a glaring example of selective justice, questioning Alia’s commitment to impartial governance.
The SUBEB scandal involves allegations of financial mismanagement, including ₦100 million spent on frivolous office renovations while contractors for educational materials remain unpaid. Yet, no significant action has been taken against Dr. Adagba, whose actions are seen as an affront to public service and good governance.
The government’s actions have extended beyond Iorfa. Recently, businesses linked to perceived opponents were sealed, including Balcony Event Centre owned by Akperanshi. Other venues such as City Bay and Precious Event Centre have also faced closure, fueling public outcry against politically motivated suppression.
Political analysts argue that Alia’s focus on Iorfa is less about accountability and more about silencing dissent. One analyst noted, “Why wait until now, after an innocuous post, to resurrect this refund issue? This smacks of targeted harassment, not governance.”
The selective justice in handling SUBEB’s refund and Lobi Stars’ case damages the governor’s credibility. If true accountability is the goal, why hasn’t Dr. Adagba faced the same scrutiny?
Governor Alia’s actions against Iorfa and others perceived as political opponents undermine his administration’s integrity. True justice demands even-handed accountability, not politically charged vendettas. Until Alia addresses the ₦2.1 billion SUBEB scandal with the same vigor, his calls for refunds will remain a toxic mix of bias and hypocrisy.
