Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has inaugurated 17 newly appointed commissioners into his cabinet.
The governor stated that the new team was “carefully chosen” to help drive the state’s development agenda as his administration enters the second half of its first term.
During the swearing-in ceremony, Alia charged the commissioners to demonstrate renewed dedication, discipline, and integrity in their service.
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He urged them to stay connected to their communities, maintain confidentiality on state matters, and act as “true ambassadors” of government policies.
He reminded the commissioners that their purpose is to improve the lives of ordinary citizens.
Alia expressed his “unwavering confidence” in his deputy, Sam Ode, describing him as a “dependable partner” and a “capable, tested, and people-oriented” leader.
The governor emphasised their cordial working relationship and unity in serving the people.
The newly inaugurated commissioners are: Frederick Ikyaan, Ortese Yanmar, Michael Oglegba, Kwaghgba Amande, Tiza Isaac Imojime, Alumo Orpin, Ugwu Odoh and Kunde Aondowase.
Others are Joseph Ter Jir, James Dwem, Ornguga Yangien, Theresa Odachi Ikwue, Benjamin Ashaver, Adamu Margaret Ijaguwa, Peter Oboh Egbodo, Paul Ejeh Ogwuche and Dennis Iyaighgba
The governor encouraged the new commissioners to be humble and accessible to the public, telling them to “eat in your house with your gate wide open to everyone.”
He urged them to share opportunities, spread kindness, and humbly serve.
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In August, the governor forwarded the names of commissioner nominees to the Benue State House of Assembly in batches, a process that quickly became mired in controversy.
The Assembly initially rejected some nominees, including Timothy Ornguga, after receiving petitions accusing him of dehumanisation, academic victimisation, and psychological abuse of students during his tenure as a lecturer at Benue State University (BSU).
Mr Ornguga, along with another nominee, James Dwen, failed the first round of screening after lawmakers deemed their responses to the allegations unsatisfactory.
However, both nominees were subsequently confirmed by the House.
