The Benue State House of Assembly has directed the immediate suspension of the ongoing primary school teachers’ recruitment exercise conducted by the Benue State Universal Basic Education Board (BSUBEB).
The Assembly has summoned the Executive Chairman of SUBEB, Dr. Grace Adagba, to appear on Tuesday to address concerns regarding the recruitment of individuals with non-professional education degrees who scored as low as 25% in the aptitude test.
The Assembly has also requested SUBEB to provide a detailed needs assessment of teacher requirements for each school across local government areas, results of all candidates who participated in the recruitment process, and the legal framework supporting the exercise.
This directive followed a motion of urgent public importance raised by Mr. Douglas Akya, representing the Makurdi South constituency, during Wednesday’s plenary.
He expressed concerns over the shortlisting of unqualified graduates, which contradicted the criteria outlined in the recruitment advertisement. Akya emphasised that such irregularities undermine the governor’s efforts to revitalise public primary schools.
Deputy Whip Mr. Alfred Emberga, who seconded the motion, noted complaints from constituents and argued that the recruitment of teachers does not fall under the purview of SUBEB. Additionally, Mr. Simon Gbabo, representing the Mata constituency, supported suspending the exercise, while Majority Whip Mr. Peter Ipusu suggested forming an ad-hoc committee to investigate the matter.
Separately, Mr. Thomas Dugeri of the Kwande West constituency presented a petition on behalf of Roselyn Ganki regarding her alleged underpayment by SUBEB. The Speaker referred the petition to the House Standing Committee on Rules and Business for further deliberation.
In another development, the Assembly withdrew the confirmation of three deputy clerks pending amendments to the Benue State Assembly Service Commission Law and its gazetting.
This decision followed a motion by Majority Leader Mr. Saater Tiseer, highlighting that the amended law, signed by Governor Hyacinth Alia on 11th June 2024, had not been gazetted as required. Tiseer emphasised the importance of proper legal documentation to maintain legislative integrity.
Furthermore, three bills sponsored by Dr. Abraham Jabi, representing the Buruku State constituency, and other members were introduced for first reading during the plenary.
