The Benue State House of Assembly has ordered the immediate suspension of the state Auditor-General for Local Governments, Dr Abraham Gberindyer, over allegations of financial impropriety amounting to ₦4.6 billion.
The decision, which was taken during Thursday’s plenary, followed a formal communication from the state government.
The letter, issued by the Head of Service, Dr Agbogbo Ode, was read on the floor of the House by the Speaker, Alfred Emberga.
In the correspondence, Dr Ode said he was acting on the directive of Governor Hyacinth Alia, urging the Assembly to take appropriate action to enable a proper investigation into the allegations.
The state government drew lawmakers’ attention to what it described as “Serious financial misconduct” involving the Auditor-General for Local Governments and other officials within the Bureau for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs.
According to the letter, the allegations, currently under investigation by relevant authorities, raise concerns about possible breaches in the discharge of constitutional duties by officers in the affected offices.
Citing provisions of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), the government requested the Assembly to consider measures, including the temporary suspension of the Auditor-General, pending the outcome of investigations.
During deliberations, Mr Peter Ipusu (APC/Katsina-Ala) called for the outright dismissal of the official and demanded that any misappropriated funds be recovered and returned to government coffers.
Mr Terna Shimawua (APC/Kyado) advocated a thorough investigation, stressing the importance of ensuring a fair hearing for all parties involved, while Mr Douglas Akya (APC/Makurdi South) recommended that the Auditor-General step aside to allow for an unhindered probe.
Putting the matter to a voice vote, Speaker Emberga asked lawmakers to decide on the suspension to pave the way for the investigation. The motion received unanimous support.
Following the resolution, the Speaker directed the House Joint Committee on Local Government and Finance to conduct a detailed investigation and report back to the Assembly for further legislative action.
