Alia Suspends SUBEB Boss, Otukpo LGA Chairman, Lottery Chief Over Assembly Resolution
Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has approved the suspension of the Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Dr. Grace Adagba, along with two other top officials of the state. This decision followed a resolution passed by the Benue State House of Assembly, which called for action on issues related to accountability and management in state agencies.
The other officials affected by the suspension include Mr. Maxwell Ogiri, the Executive Chairman of Otukpo Local Government Area, and Mr. Michael Uper, the Executive Secretary of the Benue State Lottery Commission. The Assembly had earlier recommended that Dr. Adagba should face a six-month suspension. However, Governor Alia reduced it to one month, explaining that such a period was enough to allow for investigations without keeping the agencies stagnant for too long.
The SUBEB chairman’s suspension has drawn much public attention because of the board’s central role in managing primary education across Benue. According to lawmakers, concerns were raised about the handling of contracts, project execution, and financial management within the board. The Assembly emphasized that accountability in the education sector is vital, and a temporary suspension would provide room for an independent review of SUBEB’s activities.
Governor Alia stressed that the suspension does not mean the officials are guilty, but it ensures a fair ground for investigations. He reassured citizens that no public officer will be exempt from scrutiny, regardless of their position. The governor also noted that the move was part of his administration’s commitment to transparency and good governance, values that he believes will rebuild trust between the government and the people.
The reaction from citizens and stakeholders has been mixed. Some believe the one-month suspension is not strong enough, especially since the Assembly initially called for six months. Others think the governor’s approach is balanced, as it allows checks and investigations without creating leadership gaps in the affected agencies. Parents, civil society groups, and education stakeholders are now eager to see how this decision will improve the delivery of basic education in the state.
Political observers argue that this action represents a test of the relationship between the executive and legislative arms of government in Benue. By approving the suspension, even though shorter than recommended, Governor Alia has demonstrated that his government will listen to the Assembly while still exercising executive discretion. Analysts also believe the decision sets a precedent, reminding other public officers that transparency is not negotiable.
The suspensions of Mr. Ogiri of Otukpo LGA and Mr. Uper of the Lottery Commission also highlight the broader scope of the Assembly’s resolution. These officials are expected to step aside temporarily while senior officers in their agencies handle daily affairs. Meanwhile, investigations will continue to determine whether there were breaches of accountability in their conduct.
As investigations unfold, the people of Benue are calling on the government to make the findings public to show that the exercise is not just political but aimed at restoring trust. For Governor Alia, this moment presents an opportunity to reinforce his administration’s stance on integrity in governance. Citizens want to see results that prove that public resources are being managed responsibly and for the benefit of all.
This development has also sparked conversations about governance standards in Benue State. With residents demanding stronger oversight and efficient service delivery, the suspension of these officials may become a turning point for how accountability is handled going forward. Political analysts say the outcome will be closely watched, not only for its impact on education and local governance but also for its possible influence on public opinion ahead of future elections.
In the coming weeks, all eyes will be on the investigative process and the decisions that follow. Whether the suspended officials return to their posts or face extended sanctions, one thing is certain: the incident has reinforced the principle that governance in Benue must be rooted in transparency and accountability.
