The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has leveled accusations against Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State, asserting that his recent appointment of caretaker committees for local government areas in the state undermines the rule of law.
According to the PDP, this move lacks legal backing and raises concerns about the governor’s commitment to the promised autonomy for local government administration. In a statement signed by Chief Bemgba Iortyom (Vande-U-Mbaiwer), the State Publicity Secretary of the Benue PDP, it was emphasized that the appointment of caretaker committees for all 23 local government councils was executed without the required enabling law from the Benue State House of Assembly.
The PDP claims that the heads of these committees bypassed mandatory screening by the legislature, thus violating due process. The party alleges that Governor Alia’s actions contradict his campaign promises during the 2023 elections, where he pledged to grant autonomy to the local government tier.
Despite such promises, the PDP contends that since assuming office, the governor’s approach to local government affairs has been marked by a series of court orders upholding the tenure of previously elected councils being disregarded.
The PDP reminded the public that 23 council chairmen were elected on the party’s platform in the April 30, 2022 local council elections, with a sworn-in tenure set to expire on June 28, 2024. Despite court judgments, including one by Hon. Justice (Dr.) I. J. Essien, expressly prohibiting the dissolution of elected councils, Governor Alia allegedly constituted a committee that recommended the suspension of the councils and their chairmen.
Iortyom asserted that these actions blatantly violate existing court orders, presenting both legal and democratic concerns. The governor was accused of hypocrisy, with the party alleging that his promise of autonomy was merely a ploy to secure votes during the elections.
The PDP called on Governor Alia to reverse the appointment of caretaker committees, respect the rule of law, and uphold democratic principles in the state.”