Imo State's N101.54 Billion Unapproved Spending Exposed

An investigation revealed that Imo State, governed by Hope Uzodinma, spent N101.54 billion outside the approved budget from 2023 to 2025. This extra-budgetary spending raises questions about its legality, as it occurred without legislative approval.

The breakdown shows a steady trend of overspending, with N36.94 billion in 2023, N22.54 billion in 2024, and N42.06 billion in 2025. Personnel expenditures accounted for significant overspending, with N6.44 billion spent beyond the allocated budget.

Various ministries, including Agriculture, Science and Technology, and Justice, exceeded their personnel budgets significantly. The report indicates that the Imo State Government did not secure legislative approval for these expenditures, which were flagged by the Auditor General.

The overhead budget was also exceeded by N8.52 billion, representing a 162.6% increase over the approved amount. This pattern of financial mismanagement raises serious concerns regarding fiscal responsibility in the state.