The Benue State House of Assembly has taken the decision to suspend Abraham Gberidyer, who serves as the auditor-general for local government, following allegations of financial wrongdoing amounting to approximately N4.6 billion. This action was announced on Thursday through a statement released by Michael Zape, the chief press secretary to Speaker Berger Emberga. The statement confirmed that the suspension was authorized during a plenary session.
According to the details, Governor Hyacinth Alia formally notified the lawmakers about the allegations via a letter that was transmitted by the head of service. In the correspondence, the governor indicated that Gberidyer is currently under investigation for corruption and cannot remain in office under the provisions of the constitution concerning the removal of corrupt public officers. The lawmakers unanimously supported the suspension, expressing that it would allow for a comprehensive probe into the claims.
During the same plenary session, the assembly passed a bill aimed at establishing an official state symbol and anthem for Benue, along with other related measures. The bill was passed following a report presented by the Chairman of the House Standing Committee on Culture and Tourism, William Ortyom, who was represented by Anyor Mato. Additionally, lawmakers considered a bill to repeal the Benue State Sports Marketing and Lotteries Board Law of 2017 and replace it with the Benue State Lotteries, Public Online Lotteries, Gaming and Sports Marketing Board Law of 2024, which successfully passed its second reading.
Speaker Berger Emberga referred the proposed legislation to the House Committee on Youth, Sports and Creativity for further examination. Another bill focusing on adjusting the retirement age and enhancing remuneration for magistrates and legal officers passed its third reading. This bill seeks to extend the retirement age for these officials to prevent the state from losing experienced personnel in the justice sector. Furthermore, the Benue State Pension Harmonisation Bill also passed its second reading; it was sponsored by Douglas Akya of Makurdi South constituency and aims to increase pension benefits for retirees.