The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Tuesday arraigned Mr. Donald Akule, the Managing Director of the Benue State Agricultural Development Company (BS-ADC), before the Federal High Court in Makurdi, Benue State, over allegations of diverting N59.8 million.
Akule faces eight counts including criminal breach of trust, stealing, and diversion of public funds. The EFCC Makurdi Zonal Directorate revealed that the accused was arrested after a petition was filed against him, accusing him of diverting funds meant for the purchase of grains for the state government.
Key Allegations:
- Diversion of Funds: The funds, part of an N486 million allocation from the Benue Investment and Property Company (BIPC), were designated for fish cultivation, grain purchase, and warehouse renovation. Akule allegedly diverted a substantial portion of these funds for his personal use.
- Contract Fraud: In 2024, Akule allegedly used a company owned by his friend, Udeco Engineering, to award contracts for various projects without following due process. He is accused of using part of the contract sum for his personal benefit.
- False Pretenses: On December 20, 2025, Akule allegedly obtained N14 million from BIPC under false pretenses, claiming it was for stocking fish and building a fish pond.
Court Proceedings:
- Akule pleaded not guilty to all charges and applied for bail, though the prosecution objected to his release.
- The presiding judge, Justice Raphael Egbe, remanded Akule at the Correctional Centre in Makurdi and set the next hearing for January 29, 2026, to consider the bail application.
The case reflects ongoing efforts by the EFCC to tackle corruption and financial misconduct in public offices, with an accelerated trial requested by the prosecution.
