Benue Assembly stops Alia’s commissioner screening over unmet demands

The Benue State House of Assembly has suspended the screening of Governor Hyacinth Alia’s commissioner nominees, insisting the executive must first meet its earlier resolutions.

The decision was reached on Friday in Makurdi, moments after Speaker Hyacinth Dajoh read the governor’s letter forwarding the list of nominees.

Thomas Dugeri (APC/Kwande West) said lawmakers were not against the screening but stressed that pending issues must be addressed.

Simon Gabo (APC/Mata) complained about unpaid constituency allowances, incomplete chamber renovations, and lack of official vehicles for seven members. He suggested adjourning sittings indefinitely until the governor acts.

Elias Audu (APC/Gwer East) lamented the executive’s failure to implement resolutions, including unfreezing state accounts. Manger Manger (APC/Tarka) accused the government of withholding constituency service funds despite budgetary provisions.

Kennedy Angbo (APC/Otukpo-Akpa) criticised the executive’s attitude, while Bemdoo Ipusu (APC/Katsina-Ala) condemned alleged insults from aides of SUBEB Chair, Dr Grace Adagba.

Other lawmakers including Michael Audu (PDP/Adoka-Ugboju), Abu Edoh (PDP/Agatu), and William Ortyom (PDP/Agasha)  opposed an indefinite shutdown but agreed the screening should wait. Ortyom also noted the Assembly still sits on plastic chairs, calling it a disgrace.

Ruling on the matter, Speaker Dajoh ordered Governor Alia to implement the resolutions and suspend the SUBEB Chair, Otukpo Council Chairman, and Sports Lottery Board Executive Secretary.

He warned that until the demands including the provision of seven vehicles are met, the Assembly will not entertain further correspondence from the executive.