The Benue State House of Assembly has repealed the law providing for the maintenance of former governors and their deputies.
This law was passed and assented to by former Governor Samuel Ortom in May 2023, towards the end of his administration.
The bill had faced public outcry since its passage under the Ortom administration, particularly from the opposition party that later won the governorship election.
Douglas Akya, Chairman of the House Standing Committee on Appointments, Public Service, and Pension Matters, who represents Makurdi South Constituency, presented the repeal bill, and argued that the law was not in the state’s best interest, as it has limited resources needed for other pressing needs.
Other lawmakers who supported the repeal bill include Samuel Agada of Ogbadibo Constituency and Alfred Emberga of Makurdi North Constituency.
The lawmakers noted that spending heavily on former governors and their deputies was impractical due to significant infrastructure gaps and a substantial debt burden.
Also, during the plenary session, the legislators passed a bill to prohibit the harassment and extortion of money from investors, developers, and businessmen, commonly known as ‘marching ground’ fees.
Elias Audu, Chairman of the House Standing Committee on Lands, Survey, and Solid Minerals, who led the debate, stated that the new law would curb the activities of miscreants who extort land from developers and residents.
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