Benue Assembly suspends auditor-general over N4.6bn allegation

The Benue State House of Assembly has ordered the immediate suspension of Abraham Gberindyer, the Auditor-General for Local Governments, following allegations of financial impropriety amounting to N4.6 billion, pending the outcome of the investigation.

This followed a formal communication from the Benue State Government, issued by Agbogbo Ode, the Head of Service, and read by Alfred Emberga, the Speaker, on Wednesday, during plenary in Makurdi.

According to the letter, Ode stated that he was acting on the directive of Hyacinth Alia, the Governor of Benue State, to the Assembly to enable them to act on the matter.

The State Government, through the letter, drew the attention of lawmakers to what it described as “serious financial misconduct” involving the AG 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 breaches in the discharge of constitutional duties by officers attached to the offices.

The Government, citing provisions of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), requested the Assembly to consider appropriate actions, including the temporary suspension of the AG pending the outcome of investigations.

Peter Ipusu, APC/Katsina-Ala, called for the outright dismissal of the official and urged that any misappropriated funds be recovered and returned to government coffers.

On his part, Terna Shimawua, APC/Kyan, advocated a thorough investigation while stressing the need to ensure fair hearing for all parties involved.

Douglas Akyan, APC/Makurdi South, recommended that the AG step aside to allow for an unhindered investigation.

Alfred Emberga, the Speaker of Benue State House of Assembly, put the matter to a voice vote, asking whether he should be suspended to pave the way for investigation, and the lawmakers unanimously supported the suspension.

Following the resolution, Emberga 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.