The Benue State House of Assembly has suspended five of its members for three sittings over allegations of tampering with an investigative report into the activities of the Chairman of Otukpo Local Government Area, Hon. Maxwell Ogiri.
Those suspended are Hon. Shimawua Terna, Hon. Mathew Damkor, Hon. Cephas Dyako, Hon. Moses Egbodo, and Hon. Isaac Echekliye all members of the House Standing Committee on Local Government, Security and Chieftaincy Affairs.
The committee, chaired by Hon. Terna Shimawua, had been tasked with probing allegations of misappropriation of funds and abuse of office levelled against Hon. Ogiri. However, concerns emerged during the presentation of their report, as lawmakers observed significant discrepancies between the committee’s findings and what was contained in the final document.
In response, the House constituted a five-member ad hoc committee led by Hon. Bemdoo Ipusu to conduct a fresh investigation aimed at uncovering the truth behind the allegations.
The Assembly accused the suspended lawmakers of attempting to cover up the alleged financial misconduct, abuse of office, and the controversial closure of the Otukpo Legislative Chamber moves perceived as shielding the council chairman from accountability.
The suspension, lawmakers say, is meant to uphold the integrity of the legislative process and ensure transparent oversight of public institutions.


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