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The Benue State House of Assembly has taken significant steps to tackle pressing issues affecting the state, as highlighted during a plenary session today. The assembly has called for collaborative efforts to address environmental and security challenges, reflecting the urgency of the situation.
The Ministry of Water Resources and Environment has been urged to extend its collaborative initiatives to find a sustainable solution to the gully erosion plaguing the Adum community and other affected areas in Ogbadibo Local Government Area. This move aims to mitigate the environmental and social impact of erosion in the region.
Two notable bills received their second reading during the plenary session. The first, a bill to amend the Benue State College of Health Sciences and Technology, Agasha Law 2012, was moved by Hon. Elias Audu of Gwer East State Constituency. Hon. Audu emphasized that the bill represents a strategic investment in healthcare, aiming to enhance services across the state. The second bill, proposing the establishment of Benue State Skills Acquisition Training Centres across the three senatorial zones, seeks to train unemployed graduates, students, and uneducated citizens. This bill was sponsored by Hon. Agbo Isaac Ochekyile of Ohimini State Constituency.
In a separate resolution, the House, led by Hon. Douglas Akaya of Makurdi South State Constituency, addressed a rise in extrajudicial killings by security operatives. Highlighting recent incidents, including the killing of Fanen Kpentenem, a cybercrime suspect, and the deaths of unarmed mourners in Jato Aka by armed military personnel, the assembly condemned these acts in strong terms. Hon. Akaya cited Section 33 of the Nigerian Constitution, which guarantees the right to life, arguing that such killings violate fundamental human rights and undermine the credibility of security agencies.
Members expressed disappointment with the security personnel involved and warned that delays in addressing the issue could erode public confidence in government institutions and fuel unrest. The House called on the Benue State Government, under Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, to establish a judicial panel to investigate police brutality and extrajudicial killings. Additionally, they urged collaboration with federal authorities to strengthen oversight, discipline, and human rights compliance among security personnel.
The Inspector General of Police has been directed to conduct an immediate investigation into all reported cases and ensure culpable officers are brought to justice. This decision, reached during a plenary session presided over by Honourable Speaker Rt. Hon. Aondoaver Berger Alfred Embergera, followed a motion of urgent public importance moved by Hon. Douglas Akaya.
The assembly also appealed to the Benue State Government to mobilize the Ministry of Works to grade roads in the Adum community, providing much-needed infrastructure support. These resolutions underscore the House’s commitment to addressing both environmental and human rights challenges facing the state.
As these initiatives move forward, the people of Benue State look to their representatives for continued action and accountability. Stay tuned for updates on these developing stories.
