Benue state Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has inaugurated the 10th Benue State House of Assembly.
Alia performed the inauguration at the hallow chambers of the State Assembly on Monday, charged the new legislators to collaborate with the Executive arm of government in order to deliver the expected dividends of democracy to the Benue people.
He further assured the lawmakers of his administration’s support at all times and solicited for constructive engagements and support from the legislature and the judicial arms of government to enable them actualize set goals.
The Governor urged the new legislators to be exemplary in their conducts and stressed that the Benue society have high expectations from them, hence the need to deliver on their mandate.
According to him, “The legislature not only give the people a voice in affairs of government, but provides the bedrock for the rule of law, equity and justice to reign in the polity.
“Due to the big role the legislature play side by side with the judiciary and the Executive arm of government, we are fully prepared to respect the sanctity of the doctrine of the separation of powers under a democracy.”
Alia, pledged not to interfere with the internal affairs of the legislature especially in the election of its leaders, said “We are prepared to meaningfully work with those who you choose to lead the house.”
The Governor, advised members to choose from among themselves those that they will always be proud of their leadership qualities, adding “We will support the house with the training and retraining of staff of members of the House.”
He pledged that the Executive arm of government will work in harmony with the legislature and the judiciary to ensure effective service delivery to the people who are expecting so much from them.
While he congratulated all members, Alia told them “you are elected as agents of hope and change and I believe that this will always guide every of your steps in the legislative business, oversight functions and all their actions.”
The Clark of the House, Barr. Nule, also congratulated the members, both new and returning, for their victories and welcomed the new members to the house.
As at the time of filing this report, the House were setting modalities towards the election of leaders and key principal officers.