The Benue State House of Assembly has passed a resolution recommending the immediate suspension of the Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Dr. Grace Adagba, for alleged incompetence and refusal to cooperate with legislative oversight.
During its sitting on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, the House urged Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia to suspend Dr. Adagba for a period of six months, citing her disregard for the authority of the Assembly.
The motion, moved by Hon. Bemdoo Peter Ipusu, alleged that Dr. Adagba had failed to appear before an ad hoc committee of the House investigating reported illegalities within SUBEB. He told lawmakers that the Chairman not only ignored multiple invitations but also wrote to the House, claiming it had no legal grounds to probe contracts awarded by the board.
Lawmakers expressed strong displeasure at what they described as Dr. Adagba’s “deliberate obstruction” of the Assembly’s constitutional role. They emphasized that such defiance is unacceptable and a threat to transparency and accountability in public service.
The House also directed the Special Adviser on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mr. Denen Aondoakaa, to suspend the release of funds to SUBEB pending further notice.
Speaking on behalf of the Speaker, the Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker, Terver Zamber, confirmed the development in a statement issued to journalists shortly after the plenary. He noted that the decision reflects the Assembly’s commitment to upholding due process and ensuring proper conduct within public institutions.
“The House will not tolerate any attempt to undermine its constitutional responsibilities. The resolution passed today is a clear message that every agency and official must be held accountable,” Zamber stated.
