The Benue State House of Assembly has recommended the suspension of the Chairman of Kwande Local Government Area, Mr Vitalis Neji, for three months over allegations of gross misconduct and abuse of office.

The decision was taken on Thursday after lawmakers considered a committee report on the matter.

The recommendation followed the findings of an ad hoc committee set up by the House to investigate the allegations against the council chairman. Majority Leader and committee chairman, Mr Peter Ipusu, presented the report during plenary.

Ipusu told the House that Neji appeared before the committee but was unable to satisfactorily defend himself against the allegations levelled against him. Members then unanimously called on the Speaker to rule on the committee’s recommendation.

Speaker Alfred Emberga announced the suspension of Neji for three months to allow for further investigation into the claims. He stated that the suspension took effect immediately, pending the outcome of the probe.

The action forms part of the Assembly’s oversight of local government administration in the state. Further details on the specific allegations and the next steps of the investigation are expected as the process continues.