Benue Assembly cancels sitting over unpaid salaries

The Benue State House of Assembly has temporarily suspended its proceedings due to the non-payment of six months’ worth of salary arrears and allowances owed to its members.

As a result of the suspension, the controversial Executive Pension Bill, which was submitted by Governor Samuel Ortom for approval, is currently on hold.

The proposed bill, which has faced criticism from Governor-elect Hyacinth Alia, includes provisions that grant permanent accommodation and four new cars every four years to former Governors of the state. It also suggests the hiring of six personal staff for former governors and three for former deputy governors. Additionally, the bill proposes free medical treatment for former governors, their spouses, and at least four of their children under the age of 18.

A member of the House, Bem Mngutyo, expressed to The Nation that they have decided not to hold any further sessions until their outstanding emoluments and salaries are paid.

Mngutyo also disclosed that the outgoing governor met with the Peoples Democratic Party caucus of the House last weekend to address the issue. During the meeting, the governor pledged to settle the outstanding allowances and salaries using the federal allocation for the month of May before leaving office in 18 days.