Benue Assembly summons LG chairmen, directors over exploitation allegations

The Benue State House of Assembly has summoned the 23 local government chairmen, along with the directors of general services and administrations, to appear before it in response to allegations of exploitation.

The summons, issued during Tuesday’s plenary session, also extends to the heads of revenue departments at the councils, who are required to appear before the House on Friday.

This action followed a motion raised by Mr. Moses Egbodo, Co-Chairman of the Joint Committee on Finance, Trade, and Industry. Egbodo informed the Assembly that the local government officials had refused to appear before the committee to answer questions regarding the alleged exploitative use of unapproved sacks.

Egbodo further stated that the officials had declined to use the Benue-approved sacks designated for markets in the state.

Mr. Abu Umoru, the other co-chairman of the committee, expressed frustration over the officials’ disregard for the House’s authority. He emphasized that the issue, which involves the exploitation of farmers, is a serious matter that requires proper attention.

In response, the Speaker of the House directed that the council chairmen, their DGSAs, and the heads of revenue departments must appear before the House on Friday without fail.