The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Makurdi Zonal Office, has arrested the Commandant, Benue State Vigilante Group, BSVG, George Mbessey, over allegation of conspiracy, abuse of office and diversion of public funds to the tune of N449.5million.
In a statement on Friday, the EFCC’s Head, Media & Publicity, Dele Oyewale, said Mr Mbessey was arrested on Wednesday, in Makurdi, following a petition urging the Commission to investigate a case of alleged financial recklessness against the suspect.
The petitioners stated that, the BSVG used to receive its official funding of N20million monthly directly from the Bureau of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs through its official account.
It added that, between October 2018 and May 2020, the suspect allegedly collected funds meant for the Benue State Vigilante Group to the tune of N449,500,000, using personal account, an act they claim did not follow due process. Hence, the petition to the EFCC.
Meanwhile, the EFCC said the suspect has volunteered useful information to the Commission and would be arraigned in court as soon as investigation is concluded.