The Abia State Judicial Panel of Inquiry, tasked with the recovery of government properties and funds, has reported significant misappropriation in Bende Local Government Area (LGA). The panel, led by retired Justice Florence Duruoha-Igwe, found that essential government assets had been illicitly removed and sold.

During a comprehensive fact-finding mission to Bende LGA, the panel discovered that two sound-proof power generators and two heavy-duty lister generators, originally belonging to the local government, were sold by a traditional ruler. Further investigations revealed vandalism of an overhead water tank and a solar power set, the latter having been donated by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

Additionally, the panel observed encroachment and unauthorized sale of land designated for government use, including areas with office blocks, staff quarters, a forest department, and the Chief Magistrate court. These lands were reportedly demarcated and sold to individuals for private enterprises.

The findings were part of a guided tour around the council premises by Mr. Chijioke Nwankwo, Chairman of Bende LGA, highlighting critical governance and oversight issues within the region. The panel’s revelations underscore ongoing challenges in safeguarding public assets in Abia State.