Dominic Iorfa, former Executive Vice Chairman of Lobi Stars Football Club, has publicly declared that the Benue State Government owes him over ₦400 million in unpaid reimbursements and operational expenses incurred during his tenure.
Speaking on the ECN Hard Truth programme, Iorfa firmly denied allegations of financial misconduct leveled against him in the state’s forensic audit report. “They owe me over ₦400 million. I have documentation for it,” he stated. “I never embezzled money. I was wrongly accused.”
Iorfa, who returned to lead Lobi Stars in 2022 under former Governor Samuel Ortom, described the financial structure during Ortom’s administration as transparent and efficient. However, he noted that the situation deteriorated under Governor Hyacinth Alia, citing delays in fund disbursement and a lack of direct access to match-day finances. “Under Alia, I only received funding for 14 out of 57 matches played. I had to borrow money to keep the club running,” he explained.
The Benue State Government’s forensic audit committee had earlier indicted Iorfa and two other former club officials, demanding a refund of ₦2.4 billion. Nearly ₦1.8 billion of that figure was attributed to Iorfa’s tenure. He dismissed the report as a smear campaign, asserting that all expenditures were properly documented and used for club operations.
Despite the controversy, Iorfa expressed continued loyalty to Lobi Stars and a willingness to support the club if called upon. “I am from Benue State. If they need my help, I’m ready. But they claimed they knew everything. If they truly did, they wouldn’t be relegated,” he said, referencing the club’s recent drop from the top-flight league after 27 years.