Maureen Okpe
The Governor of Benue State, Hyacinth Alia, has dissolved the Benue State Executive Council, relieving all Commissioners of their duties in a move aimed at repositioning the government for greater efficiency.
The major highlight of the announcement was the appointment of Barr. Moses Atagher as the new Chief of Staff, CoS to the Governor.
A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Tersoo Kula, disclosed that, the announcement was made at the conclusion of the 12th Benue State Executive Council Meeting held on Wednesday.
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Barr. Atagher, a distinguished lawyer and administrator, previously served as a two-term Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in the state.
He is also a former Acting Managing Director of the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria.
The Governor disclosed that Atagher’s appointment takes immediate effect.
“Barr. Atagher is a seasoned administrator with a proven track record of service both at the state and federal levels. His appointment is part of our broader strategy to inject fresh energy into the system,” Gov. Alia stated.
While addressing the outgoing Commissioners, Governor Alia expressed deep appreciation for their service over the last two years.
“I thank you for your hard work, loyalty, and commitment. For those who may not be reappointed, I urge you to remain in the party and continue to engage with the system.
“Your contributions are valued, and this is an opportunity for others to also serve,” he said.
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The Governor clarified that apart from the Chief of Staff, the dissolution affects only Commissioners, indicating that Special Advisers and other cabinet-level officials remain unaffected.
Speaking on behalf of the outgoing Commissioners, the former Commissioner for Lands, Survey and Solid Minerals, Barr. Bemsen Mnyim, thanked the Governor for the opportunity to serve.
“At every stage in life, everywhere you are called to serve is a school. We have learnt a lot while working with you,” Mnyim said.
The affected Commissioners have been directed to hand over immediately to the Permanent Secretaries of their respective Ministries.
This marks the first major shake-up of the Alia-led administration since its inception, with political observers speculating that the move is aimed at repositioning the government ahead of mid-term strategic governance initiatives.