Plateau govt, ADC lock horns over N10bn expenditure

The Plateau State government and the opposition African Democratic Congress (ADC) are clashing over claims that the state government spent N10.11 billion on travel and transportation expenses within six months. The ADC has criticized the governor for what it perceives as "financial recklessness, questionable expenditure and alleged mismanagement of public resources."

ADC's Publicity Secretary, Silas Audu Wettok, demanded accountability for the alleged misuse of public funds. He asked the Plateau State government to explain the purpose and benefits of the N10.11 billion spent on travel and transportation in the first half of 2026. In response, the state's Commissioner of Information and Communication, Joyce Ramnap, defended the government's expenditure as judicious and responsible.

She clarified that the N10.11 billion figure does not include the governor's personal travel expenses. Instead, it represents a comprehensive expenditure on travel, transport, and related activities across various sectors of the Plateau State public service, including ministries, departments, agencies, tertiary institutions, the judiciary, and the state House of Assembly.

Ramnap emphasized that the government is committed to transparency, accountability, and responsible management of public resources. She highlighted several official engagements, such as international trips for strategic networking and partnerships, medical assistance to citizens abroad, and training-related travels. The commissioner stressed that Governor Mutfwang's international trips were for clearly defined official purposes and aimed at benefiting Nigeria and Plateau State.

Ramnap assured citizens that the Plateau State Government will continue to uphold the highest standards of financial discipline, transparency, and responsible governance.