In a shocking revelation, the Chairman of Ijumu Local Government Area in Kogi State, Hon. Taufiq Isah, is facing allegations of illegally auctioning numerous properties belonging to the local government, just three weeks before the expiration of his tenure.
An anonymous insider disclosed that the Chairman purportedly auctioned properties worth hundreds of millions of naira to himself through political allies. Attempts to resist this alleged fraudulent activity were reportedly met with threats of using security agencies to apprehend those opposing his plans.
The items allegedly auctioned off include various vehicles such as Toyota Corolla, Toyota Camry, Toyota Hummer Hiace Bus, and others, along with agricultural equipment like ploughs, harrows, tractors, and more.
Additionally, household items like televisions, standing fans, generators, refrigerators, and typewriters were reportedly part of the auction.
A concerned staff member, who wished to remain anonymous, called for the State Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, to intervene, dissolve the process, and ensure the refund of funds collected during the auction.
The staff member expressed concern that if the auction proceeds as alleged, the entire local government would be left devoid of resources for the incoming administration.
The source lamented that this purported sale of government property, including tractors meant for enhancing farming and food security, had left the local government financially depleted.
The individual accused Chairman Taufiq Isah of selling graders that were used for road maintenance, resulting in impassable and dilapidated rural roads.
The staff member emphasized the unprecedented nature of such actions within Ijumu Local Government, questioning the transparency and accountability of the entire process. The source also raised concerns about the lack of benefit to local government staff from the auction.
Further investigations revealed that the auction allegedly took place in collaboration with an auctioneer named Salawu Onimisi. The situation has sparked calls for a thorough investigation and intervention to prevent what is perceived as a potential depletion of public assets in the local government.
