Benue Assembly suspends LG auditor-general over alleged N4.6bn fraud
Benue State House of Assembly Suspends Auditor-General Amid Fraud Allegations
The Benue State House of Assembly has suspended Abraham Gberidyer, the auditor-general for local governments, following allegations of financial misconduct and fraud totaling approximately 4.6 billion naira.
In a statement issued Thursday, Michael Zape, the chief press secretary to Speaker Berger Emberga, confirmed that the suspension was approved during a plenary session.
According to the statement, Governor Hyacinth Alia informed lawmakers through a letter, originally sent by the head of service, outlining serious accusations of financial irregularities against Gberidyer. Zape noted that in the letter, the governor emphasized that Gberidyer is “currently under investigation over allegations of corruption” and that he cannot remain in office in accordance with constitutional provisions regarding the removal of corrupt public officials.
Lawmakers reportedly reached a unanimous decision to suspend Gberidyer, allowing for a comprehensive investigation into the allegations.
In addition to the suspension, the assembly passed a bill aimed at creating an official symbol and anthem for Benue State, along with related provisions. The bill was approved following a report presented by William Ortyom, chairman of the House Standing Committee on Culture and Tourism, which was communicated by Anyor Mato.
Lawmakers also addressed a bill proposing the repeal of the Benue State Sports Marketing and Lotteries Board Law of 2017, with plans to introduce the Benue State Lotteries, Public Online Lotteries, Gaming and Sports Marketing Board Law, 2024. This bill successfully passed its second reading during the session.
Speaker Berger Emberga has directed that the proposed legislation be referred to the House Committee on Youth, Sports, and Creativity for further examination. Additionally, another bill aimed at adjusting the retirement age and improving salaries for magistrates and legal officers reached its third reading. This legislation seeks to extend the retirement age in the State Ministry of Justice to retain experienced personnel in the justice sector.
The assembly also saw the second reading of the Benue State Pension Harmonization Bill, sponsored by Douglas Akya of Makurdi South constituency, which aims to increase pension benefits for retirees.
