From Joseph Uchenna, Makurdi
The Benue State House of Assembly has recommended the immediate suspension of the Chairman, Otukpo Local Government Area, Hon. Maxwell Ogiri for a period of six months over alleged misappropriation of funds.
The chairman is also accused of harassment of councilors.
The House recommended during its plenary presided over by the Speaker Hyacinth Aondona Dajoh, for the immediate swearing-in of the Deputy Chairman to take over the helms of affairs of the Council.
The recommendation followed the report of the Committee on Local Government, Security and Chieftaincy Affairs during its interactions with the Chairman over alleged diversion of government funds to his private account and his illegal closure of the local government legislative chambers.
The House further constituted a five-man panel chaired by Hon. Bemdoo Ipusu, with Michael Audu, Cyril Ekong, Solomon Gyila, Berger Alfred as members while Mr. Bem Abunde is to serve as secretary.
The panel is to investigate the activities of the Local Government, Security, and Chieftaincy Affairs committee and submit its report to the House within one week.
