The Benue State House of Assembly has established an ad-hoc committee to examine the cash flow of local governments, in a move aimed at promoting greater transparency and accountability at the grassroots level.
The decision was taken during plenary on Tuesday in Makurdi, where Speaker Alfred Emberga explained that the initiative aligns with the state government’s position on local government autonomy.
He noted that Governor Hyacinth Alia has repeatedly stated that local councils are receiving adequate funding to carry out their responsibilities effectively.
The committee is chaired by Majority Leader Thomas Dugeri, with Cyril Ikong serving as vice chairman. Other members include Terna Shimawua, Abu Umoru, Bemdoo Ipusu, Douglas Akya, and Isaac Ochekliye.
To support its work, the committee’s secretariat will be handled by Daniel Gever as secretary, assisted by Michael Tsav. The Speaker tasked the members with conducting a thorough and objective review, directing them to submit their report within 21 days.
Meanwhile, the assembly also moved forward on legislative matters by passing four important bills. Among them is the Benue State Pension Harmonisation and Minimum Pension Law, 2026, sponsored by Douglas Akya and others, which seeks to improve pension management and enhance the welfare of retirees.
Lawmakers also approved a bill establishing the Benue State Security Trust Fund to strengthen security funding, as well as legislation to repeal the 2007 Local Government Law and introduce a new framework governing the structure, financing, and operations of local councils.
In addition, the House passed a bill focused on climate change, introducing measures such as carbon budgeting and creating the Benue State Council on Climate Change Secretariat.
This reflects the state’s growing commitment to environmental sustainability and effective climate governance.
