Benue Assembly approves second reading of Security Trust Fund Bill

The Benue State House of Assembly has passed the second reading of a bill aimed at establishing the Benue State Security Trust Fund, designed to strengthen the state’s security architecture and address related concerns.

The bill was read for the second time during a plenary session overseen by Speaker Rt. Hon. Alfred Emberger.

During the debate, Majority Leader Hon. Sir Thomas Dugeri emphasized that the fund’s primary purpose is to create a dedicated pool for acquiring security equipment, as well as providing the human and material resources necessary for the effective operation of all federal, state, and local security agencies in Benue.

He added that a portion of the fund would be earmarked for the training and retraining of security personnel, ensuring they are equipped to meet the evolving security challenges facing the state.

Members of the House welcomed the bill, noting that it comes at a critical time when the people of Benue are grappling with rising insecurity and multiple threats.

Lawmakers stressed the importance of proactive investment in security to safeguard the state and unanimously approved the bill for the second reading.

Following the approval, Speaker Rt. Hon. Aondoaver Alfred Emberga referred the bill to the House Standing Committees on Local Government, Security, and Chieftaincy Affairs for further legislative scrutiny and action.

Additionally, the Assembly received a petition from Okoh Regina Ada titled, “Petition Against Victimization, Unlawful Removal From Office, And Abuse Of Power By Officials Of The Local Government Service Commission And Others In Respect Of My Appointment As Treasurer, Obi Local Government Council.”

The petition was formally presented on the floor of the House by Rt. Hon. Anthony Agom, who represents Okpokwu State, according to a statement from the Speaker’s Chief Press Secretary, Zape Upaa.