On January 10, 2025, the Benue State Government ordered three former vice chairmen of the club to refund N2.4 billion to the state coffers.
According to Tersoo Kula, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, this directive was made necessary by the findings of a forensic audit investigation into the club’s affairs between January 2020 and September 2024. The investigation, which was conducted by a committee led by Donatus San-Chir-Igba, revealed that the club had accrued N3.7 billion during this period, but only N1.3 billion was accounted for, leaving a difference of N2.4 billion.
The report further stated that Mr. Mike Idoko and others who worked with him during the 2020-2021 period are required to refund N243 million.
Similarly, Mr. Emmanuel Taman and others who worked under him during the 2021-2022 period are expected to refund N434.3 million.
Mr. Dominic Iorfa and others are required to refund N692.4 million for the 2022-2023 period, N702.8 million for the 2023-2024 period, and N371.4 million for the 2024-2024 period.
The committee emphasized that all individuals and companies involved in financial transactions with the club during the period under review were formally invited and given a fair hearing.
The report also recommended that Lobi Stars be registered as a full company with the responsibility to generate revenue, and that funds from the club’s sponsors be deposited directly into the club’s account.
The report advocated for the independence of the club, stating that the Ministry of Sports should no longer control or interfere in the day-to-day running of the club.
