The Benue State House of Assembly has confirmed six commissioner-nominees submitted by Governor Hyacinth Alia but rejected two others following unresolved petitions against them.
Those who scaled through the screening process are Hon. Theresa Odachi Ikwue, Hon. Dr. Benjamin Ashaver, Hon. Dr. Adamu Margaret Ijaguwa, Hon. Dr. Peter Oboh Egbodo, Hon. Denis Iyaighgba and Dr. Paul Ejeh Ogwuche. However, the nominations of Dr. Yangien Ornguga and Mr. James Dwen were turned down by the House after both men failed to provide satisfactory responses to allegations raised against them.
Presiding over the confirmation session, the Speaker of the Assembly commended lawmakers for the diligence and fairness they exhibited throughout the screening exercise. He urged the confirmed commissioners to see their appointment as an opportunity to serve the people of Benue with commitment and integrity.
The House also called on Governor Alia to forward alternative nominees to replace the rejected candidates in order to ensure full constitution of the State Executive Council.
In a statement issued after the plenary, the Speaker’s Chief Press Secretary, Terver Zamber, reaffirmed that the Assembly remains committed to upholding the highest standards of accountability and integrity in public office.
