.suspends LG chair, other appointees
Following the Benue State House of Assembly refusal to honour correspondence from Governor Hyacinth Alia seeking the screening and confirmation of nominees for Commissionership in the State Executive Council during a plenary, presided by the Speaker, Hyacinth Aondona Dajoh, Governor Hyacinth Alia has upheld the resolutions of the Benue State House of Assembly conveyed to his office regarding the suspension of some public officials.
A decision made known through a press statement signed by hi chief press secretary, Tersoo Kulas, saying “in line with the resolutions passed by the House, His Excellency affirms the suspension of the Executive Chairman of Otukpo Local Government Area, Maxwell Ogiri, for a period of one month, effective from today (Wednesday), and the suspension of the Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Grace D. Adagba, for a period of one month, effective from today as well as the immediate suspension of the Executive Secretary of the Benue State Lottery Commission, Michael Uper for the period of one month, effective from today.”
This followed a motion of urgent public importance moved by Shimapever Jiji, informing the House that the Governor had refused to honour any resolution of the House and had treated members with total disregard.
Seconding the motion, Thomas Dugeri said the Governor had not addressed pressing concerns previously raised by the Assembly, saying he has no respect for the Hallowed Chamber.
Members who contributed said the decision was not aimed at stalling governance but to compel the Executive Arm to respect legislative independence and fulfil prior commitments.
They stated that they are not against the screening of Commissioners, but the Governor must first honour agreements and respect the resolutions of the House.
The House demanded that the Governor should immediately issue official vehicles to the affected distinguished members, giving effect to the suspension notices issued to the SUBEB Chairman and Otukpo Local Government Council Chairman and Executive Secretary, Benue State Sports Lottery and Marketing Board.
Until the executive Governor complies with the demands, the House resolved not to honour or entertain any other correspondence from the Executive Arm of Government.
Governor Alia, who upheld to the Assembly decisions, reiterated his unwavering commitment to the rule of law, due process, and the principles of separation of powers. He commended the House of Assembly for exercising its constitutional responsibilities, assuring the people of Benue State that his administration remains dedicated to transparency, accountability, and good governance.
The Governor urges all affected institutions to ensure seamless continuity of service delivery during this period and calls on the people of Benue State to continue to support the government’s efforts towards building a State that works for all.
