In a decisive move, the Benue State Governor, Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia, has dismissed Dr John Chen, the chairman of the Benue State Independent Electoral Commission, BSIEC, citing lack of competence as the reason.
The removal of Dr Chen was prompted by a resolution passed by the Benue State House of Assembly during a plenary session presided over by Speaker, Chief Hon. Hyacinth Aondona Dajoh.
The resolution came following a discussion on the report of the House Standing Committee on Rules and Business regarding their inquiries into the workings of the BSIEC, particularly in relation to the creation of council wards and the upcoming local government elections.
Furthermore, the House urged the state government to address staff shortages, provide operational vehicles for the commission, and construct a modern office space for its employees.
During the session, Comr. Saater Tiseer, also the House majority leader, highlighted various shortcomings of the commission, including staff shortages, lack of vehicles, poor infrastructure, and an underdeveloped ICT unit.
Supporting the recommendation for Dr Chen’s removal, Hon. Alfred Emberga of Makurdi North State Constituency criticized the chairman’s perceived incompetence, lack of integrity, and potential to damage the reputation of the commission if retained in office.
In addition, the House received a report from its committee on Water Resources, Environment, and Climate Change, presented by Samuel Agada of Ogbadibo State Constituency, for further debate at a later date.
In response to the Assembly’s resolution, Governor Alia quickly agreed to the immediate dismissal of the BSIEC Chairman, as stated in a press release by Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Sir Tersoo Kula.
Sir Kula confirmed the accusation against Dr Chen, stating that the Governor acknowledged the Assembly’s concerns about the chairman’s decision-making and the perceived lack of actions in the public’s interest.
Consequently, Governor Alia directed Dr John Chen to promptly hand over his duties to the Administrative secretary of the commission.