[News] Benue Assembly suspends sitting over unpaid salaries

Members of the Benue state House of Assembly have suspended sitting over the non-payment of their six-month salary arrears and allowances.

Following the suspension of plenary, the controversial Executive Pension Bill sent to them by Governor Samuel Ortom for approval is on hold.

The bill which has been faulted by Governor-elect  Hyacinth Alia, grants former Governors of the state permanent accommodation and four new cars every four years.

The bill, which has passed its first reading, also proposes the hiring of six personal staff for former governors and three for former deputy governors.

It also provides free medical treatment for the past governors,  their spouses and at least four of their children under 18.

A member of the House. Bem Mngutyo, told  The Nation yesterday that they  “resolved not to sit until our emoluments and salaries  are paid.”

Mngutyo who revealed that the outgoing governor met with the Peoples Democratic Party caucus of the House last weekend over the issue, said he promised to pay the arrears of allowances and salary with the state’s May federal allocation before he exits office in 18 days.