In a recent development, Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has affirmed the state government’s decision to suspend council chairmen and their councillors, dismissing their threats to retain their positions. The governor expressed astonishment at the suspended chairmen’s behaviour, as they seemed to believe they possessed some form of political immunity. Through his Chief Press Secretary, Kula Tersoo, the governor emphasized his lack of awareness regarding the court judgment being wielded by the chairmen.
Over the weekend, the 23 council chairmen publicly challenged the state government, defiantly choosing to remain in office despite their indefinite suspension. Speaking at the Peoples Democratic Party secretariat, Mike Uba, the state chairman of the Association of Local Government, denounced their suspension as unlawful and vowed to defy the directive.
Responding to this audacious stance, Governor Alia expressed surprise at the chairmen’s reaction. He reiterated that they had been temporarily suspended from their positions to facilitate a seamless investigation, not dismissed outright. The governor’s media aide clarified that the governor acted upon correspondence from the State Assembly, which recommended the suspension of the council chairmen pending the completion of investigations into allegations of corruption against them.
The governor firmly denied any knowledge of a court judgment, asserting, “Even if there is one, it is merely speculative, especially considering that no legal action has been taken at the time the chairmen refer to a court order or judgment.” Governor Alia, known for his adherence to the law, pledged not to breach any court order. He emphasized that even if there were a court order preventing the sacking of council chairmen, none was barring their investigation.
However, the governor posed a pertinent question, asking whether the chairmen were exempt from appropriate sanctions under constitutional provisions. He expressed his doubts, stating, “They should come to equity with clean hands.” Governor Alia suggested that the chairmen had possibly been misled into assuming they were entitled to political immunity as elected officials.
Governor Hyacinth Alia since inaugurated as Governor of Benue State, has proven that he is a no-nonsense Governor, as he is geared towards reforming the state, having carried out
The governor urged the suspended council chairmen to exercise patience as they would have an opportunity to defend themselves before the House of Assembly committee. He assured them that those found not guilty of the charges would be reinstated, but reiterated that they would remain suspended from their offices until the investigation concluded.
Governor Hyacinth Alia has wasted no time in establishing himself as a stern and uncompromising leader since assuming the position of Governor in Benue State. With his hands-on approach, he has made it a priority to reform the state by personally inspecting ministries and swiftly addressing any shortcomings he comes across.
Governor Alia’s dedication and proactive nature in the early stages of his administration suggest that he is poised for success in his endeavours to bring about positive change in Benue State.
