Benue Gov. Alia Yields to Assembly, Suspends SUBEB Chairman and Two Others

From Dooshima Terkura, Makurdi

Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, on Wednesday, bowed to the pressure of the State House of Assembly by implementing its resolutions that called for the suspension of certain public officials.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Kula Tersoo, and made available to journalists in Makurdi, the Governor confirmed the suspension of the Executive Chairman of Otukpo Local Government Area, Mr. Maxwell Ogiri, for one month, in line with the Assembly’s directive.

The statement further disclosed that Governor Alia also endorsed the one-month suspension of the Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Mrs. Grace Adagba, and the Executive Secretary of the Benue State Lottery Commission, Mr. Michael Uper. All suspensions take immediate effect.

Governor Alia reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the rule of law, due process, and the principle of separation of powers. He praised the House of Assembly for fulfilling its constitutional duties and assured Benue citizens that his government remains focused on transparency, accountability, and good governance.

The Governor also directed the affected institutions to ensure uninterrupted service delivery during the suspension period and urged residents of the state to continue supporting the administration’s vision for a progressive Benue.

It will be recalled that two weeks ago, the Assembly unanimously resolved to recommend the suspension of the SUBEB Chairman for alleged gross insubordination, while the Otukpo Chairman and the Executive Secretary of the State Lottery Commission were accused of misappropriation of funds.

The House had earlier warned that failure to suspend the indicted officials would result in its refusal to entertain any correspondence from the Governor.