Former Lobi Stars Vice Chairman and CEO Emmanuel Tama Aondofa has dismissed allegations of financial mismanagement during his tenure, calling them “a huge joke” and “embarrassing.”
Aondofa, who led the Lobi stars from April 2021 to March 2022, insisted no funds under his leadership were embezzled or misused.
Responding to the forensic audit report alleging he misappropriated over ₦434 million, Aondofa expressed shock, stating he was never invited by the audit panel, set up by Governor Hyacinth Alia, to explain any expenditures.
Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia
The panel reviewed the club’s finances from 2020 to 2024.
“I don’t know the standards used by the audit panel, but no money during my tenure was misused or unaccounted for,” Aondofa said.
“I waited for an invitation to clarify any expenses, but none came. Suddenly, I saw a baseless report claiming I must return ₦434,318,964.12.”
Aondofa detailed the club’s financial breakdown during his 11-month tenure, totaling ₦487.8 million:
– Total allocation: ₦37.8 million × 11 months = ₦415.8 million
– Monthly wage bill: ₦35 million × 11 months = ₦385 million
– Home matches: ₦2.5 million × 12 = ₦30 million
– Away matches: ₦3.5 million × 12 = ₦42 million
– Administrative, medical, and sundry expenses: ₦2.8 million × 11 = ₦30.8 million
He noted these funds were used for club operations, including player recruitment, as most players he inherited were on loan.
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He also clarified that he left no liabilities except preseason camp debts inherited from his predecessor.
“I’m shocked at this ridiculous report. It tarnishes my image and undermines my selfless service to the state,” Aondofa said.
He urged the public to critically assess the audit and his response, stating, “I’m ready to clarify any issue and ask Nigerians to judge the truth based on facts and common sense.”
The audit report and Aondofa’s rebuttal have stirred widespread debate, with the matter expected to remain in focus in the coming weeks.
