Tensions is mounting between the executive and legislative arms of government in Benue state, as the House of Assembly Friday rejected a request from Governor Hyacinth Alia to screen and confirm his nominees for commissioner positions.
Blueprint.ng reports that the move signals a deepening rift that could stall governance in the state.
During a heated plenary session presided over by the Speaker Rt. Hon. Hyacinth Aondona Dajoh, lawmakers unanimously voted to rebuff the governor’s correspondence.
The motion, spearheaded by Hon. Shimapever Jiji and seconded by Hon. Pharm. Thomas Dugeri, cited the governor’s persistent disregard for House resolutions and failure to honour prior commitments.
Members of the Assembly emphasised that their decision was not intended to obstruct governance but to uphold the integrity and independence of the legislature.
“We are not against the screening of commissioners,” Hon. Jiji stated, “but the governor must first respect the resolutions of this House.”
The lawmakers outlined several conditions that must be met before any further communication from the executive will be entertained:
Some of the conditions included provision of official vehicles to affected assembly members, enforcement of suspension notices issued to the SUBEB chairman, Otukpo local government area Chairman, and the executive secretary of the Benue state sports lottery and marketing board
The assembly agreed that until these demands are fulfilled, it will freeze all correspondence from the governor’s office.
It could be noted that this standoff underscores the assembly’s resolve to assert its constitutional authority and ensure that the executive arm does not operate unchecked.
With commissioner positions left vacant, the impasse threatens to paralyse key functions of the state’s executive council.
Political observers warn that the deadlock could have far-reaching implications for governance and service delivery in Benue state.
The governor’s next move remains uncertain, but the assembly’s message is clear – legislative oversight will not be compromised.
As the stalemate continues, all eyes are on governor Alia’s response.