Benue Assembly Rejects Governor Alia’s Commissioner List, Cites “No Respect”

The Benue State House of Assembly has formally rejected Governor Hyacinth Alia’s request to screen and confirm his nominated commissioners, accusing the governor of showing blatant disrespect toward the legislative body. During a plenary session held on Friday, the lawmakers expressed frustration over the governor’s failure to address several pressing issues previously raised by the Assembly.

Presided over by Speaker Hyacinth Dajoh, the session concluded with a resolution that no further requests from the governor will be entertained until the Assembly’s grievances are satisfactorily addressed. The position was conveyed through a statement issued by Terver Zamber, the Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker.

The rejection followed a motion of urgent public importance brought forward by Assembly member Shimapever Jiji, who highlighted the governor’s repeated disregard for the House’s resolutions and recommendations. Supporting the motion, Thomas Dugeri accused Governor Alia of disrespecting the “hallowed chamber” and neglecting critical concerns raised by legislators.

Other members reinforced the decision, clarifying that it is not intended to stall governance but to assert the Assembly’s independence and compel the executive branch to fulfill its obligations. They emphasized that commissioners’ screening cannot proceed without the governor demonstrating respect for prior agreements and compliance with House directives.

Among the Assembly’s demands are the immediate provision of official vehicles to members and enforcement of suspension notices issued against key officials, including the chairmen of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) and Otukpo Local Government Council, as well as the executive secretary of the Benue State Sports Lottery and Marketing Board.

Until these conditions are met, the House resolved to reject any further communication from the executive arm.