The Benue House of Assembly, on Wednesday, approved the suspension of three Local Government Chairmen and one vice chairman for alleged misappropriation. The suspension, which was inspired by Governor Samuel Ortom, will last three months.

All the suspended officials are members of the All Progressives Congress.

Among those affected was Mr James Simon Akola, Chairmen of Ogbadibo Local Government Council. His deputy Ameh Eugenia was also given the boot for gross misconduct, corrupt practices and truancy.

Mr Dennis Akura, Vandeikya Local Government Council chairman was also suspended. He was accused of financial improprieties. The third chairman that got the suspension was Vitalis Ugah, chairman of Gwer East Local Government Council. He was also accused of misappropriation of Public funds.

The House suspended the councilmen after receiving a letter from Gov Samuel Ortom, signed by Secretary to the State Government, Prof Anthony Ijohor (SAN) requesting approval of the House for the suspension.

Ortom in the correspondence said the suspension became necessary following cases of gross misconduct, corrupt practices among other unbecoming acts of public officers established against the Chairmen

Deputy Majority leader, Alhaji Audu Sule (Agatu/PDP, Mr Paul Biam (Ukum/PDP), Mr Matthew Ireh (Oju-two/PDP) and Mr Joseph Ojobo (Ogbadibo/PDP) all supported the suspension move.

Deputy Speaker, Mr Egli Ahubi moved a motion for the suspension. It was seconded by Member Representing Ohimini Mr. Christopher Adaji.

Speaker of the House, Mr Titus Ubah directed the leadership of the Ogbadibo legislature to take over affairs of the Council with immediate effect in line with the Local Government law, 2007 as amended.

Ubah reiterated the firm stance of the State Assembly not to condone any form of misappropriations, warning those in Public Offices to follow the path of financial transparency.

In their various contributions, the legislators warned local government chairmen against financial recklessness, saying that anyone found guilty would be made to face the full wrath of the law.

Speaking to newsmen after the sitting, the Speaker, Mr Titus Uba, denied suggestions that the three officials were suspended because they refused to defect to the PDP along with Ortom. (NAN)

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