Audit Reveals Bauchi Governor Mohammed Spent ₦16 Billion on Government House Upgrade, Exceeding ₦6 Billion Budget

A review of Bauchi State’s 2023 audited report has revealed that Governor Bala Mohammed’s administration spent ₦16 billion on renovating and upgrading the government house, significantly overshooting the initially approved budget of ₦6 billion.

The contract for the upgrade was originally awarded at ₦6.6 billion to M/S Architectronix Limited. However, the project underwent a variation of ₦9.5 billion, raising the total cost to ₦16.1 billion. Contract variation refers to an agreed change in the original terms of a contract, often leading to increased costs.

Discrepancies in Reporting

The audit findings contradicted the state’s budget performance report for the fourth quarter of 2023, which claimed:

• ₦6 billion was allocated and spent on the renovation and expansion of the government house, achieving 100% budget performance.
• However, the audit showed ₦16 billion was spent, exposing a ₦10 billion discrepancy that the government did not disclose.

Missing Funds and Unfulfilled Procurements

The audit also highlighted:

• A bill of ₦46.2 million for two project vehicles, of which only one was procured.
• ₦23.1 million remains unaccounted for in relation to the missing vehicle.

Impact on State Finances

The ₦16 billion spent on the government house represents nearly 50% of the state’s internally generated revenue (IGR) for 2023, which stood at ₦34.2 billion. This significant expenditure has raised concerns about prioritization and fiscal responsibility, particularly in a state with pressing developmental needs.

Calls for Transparency

The findings have prompted calls for greater transparency and accountability in Bauchi State’s financial management. Critics argue that the overspending and discrepancies highlight weaknesses in budget oversight and reporting processes.

Efforts to seek clarifications from the state government are ongoing, as stakeholders emphasize the need to ensure prudent use of public funds for the benefit of Bauchi’s residents.