Benue Assembly Suspends Sitting Over Unpaid 6-Month Salary

Members of the Benue State House of Assembly have suspended plenary over non-payment of their six months’ salary arrears and allowances.

As a result of the suspension, the controversial Executive Pension Bill sent to the house by Governor Samuel Ortom for approval is on hold.

The bill reportedly grants past Governors of the state four new cars every four years and permanent accommodation. And also proposes hiring six personal staff for ex-governors and three for their deputies.

The bill, which has passed its first reading, provides free medical treatment for the governor’s family, including four of their children under 18.

Hon. Bem Mngutyo, a member of the House, on Thursday disclosed that the House “resolved not to sit until our emoluments and salaries are paid”.

Mngutyo said the outgoing governor met with the Peoples Democratic Party caucus of the House last weekend over the issue.

Ortom, according to him, promised to pay the arrears of allowances and salary with the state’s May federal allocation before he exits office in 18 day time.