The Otukpo Local Government Legislative Council has petitioned the Benue State House of Assembly, accusing Council Chairman Maxwell Ogiri of shutting down legislative activities on questionable grounds.
In the petition, signed by council leader Philip Anya, members alleged that Mr Ogiri suspended sittings citing “frivolous” security concerns. A letter dated September 8, 2025, and signed by the council’s secretary, Simon Idenyi, directed councillors to conduct their legislative business via social media platforms such as WhatsApp and Facebook until further notice.
“While the Chairman is mindful that the postponement will affect the smooth running of the legislative arm, he cannot take the security advice for granted,” the letter stated.
But the Anya-led lawmakers accused the chairman of defying directives from both the governor and deputy governor to maintain the status quo following the earlier removal of the House leader. They called on the Assembly to condemn the closure of the legislative arm, set up an ad hoc committee to review reports of alleged financial misconduct, and summon Mr Ogiri to explain his actions.
The petitioners further urged the Assembly to take over the Otukpo legislative council temporarily and allow councillors to resume sessions “under the watchful and protective eyes of the House of Assembly.”
When contacted, Mr Ogiri acknowledged issuing the suspension letter but insisted it had been withdrawn. He argued that legislative business was halted not because of security, but because the council’s chamber was dilapidated and unfit for use. He added that the temporary venue — the council hall — was currently being used by the Idoma Area Traditional Council and the Bureau of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs for ongoing traditional stool selections.
Mr Ogiri has had a rocky relationship with the Assembly. He was earlier recommended for a six-month suspension over alleged misconduct, which Governor Hyacinth Alia reduced to one month. However, the suspension was lifted after just a week by the new Speaker, Alfred Emberger.
The chairman maintained that the impeachment of Mr Anya and the majority leader was carried out without his knowledge, stressing that he could not have defied a directive to maintain the status quo since he only resumed office on Monday.
