Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, has approved the suspension of three public officials, in line with the resolution earlier passed by the State House of Assembly.
The suspended officials include the Executive Chairman of Otukpo Local Government Area, Maxwell Ogiri; the Chairperson of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Grace Adagba; and the Executive Secretary of the Benue State Lottery Commission, Michael Uper. Each is to serve a one-month suspension.
According to reports, the governor’s initial reluctance to implement the assembly’s decision sparked tension between the executive and legislative arms of government.
A statement issued on Wednesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, confirmed that Governor Alia has now assented to the lawmakers’ resolution.
The statement reads, “in line with the resolutions passed by the House, His Excellency affirms the following:
“The suspension of the Executive Chairman of Otukpo Local Government Area, Mr. Maxwell Ogiri, for a period of one month, effective from today.
However, in a statement issued on Wednesday by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Tersoo Kula, Alia approved the suspension of the three officials.
The statement reads, “in line with the resolutions passed by the House, His Excellency affirms the following:
“The suspension of the Executive Chairman of Otukpo Local Government Area, Mr. Maxwell Ogiri, for a period of one month, effective from today.
“The suspension of the Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Mrs. Grace Adagba, for a period of one month, effective from today.
“The immediate suspension of the Executive Secretary of the Benue State Lottery Commission, Mr. Michael Uper for the period of one month, effective from today.
“Governor Alia reiterates his unwavering commitment to the rule of law, due process, and the principles of separation of powers.
“He commends the House of Assembly for exercising its constitutional responsibilities and assures 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”.
