Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has formally dissolved the State Executive Council, bringing an end to the tenure of the Commissioners who have served in his administration for the past two years.
The announcement was made at the conclusion of the 12th Executive Council Meeting for the year 2025, held on Wednesday in Makurdi, the state capital.
In the wake of the dissolution, the Governor has appointed Barrister Moses Atagher as the new Chief of Staff to the Government House. Atagher, a seasoned legal practitioner and experienced public administrator, previously served as Benue State’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice for two terms. He also held the position of Acting Managing Director of the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria. His appointment, according to the government, takes immediate effect.
A statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Tersoo Kula, confirmed the development. Kula described Atagher as a competent and well-grounded professional, whose wealth of experience will be vital in the administration’s next phase.
The CPS further clarified that the dissolution affects only the Commissioners. Other government appointees remain in office for the time being. The Governor expressed his gratitude to the outgoing Commissioners for their service and dedication throughout their tenure. He acknowledged their contributions to the state and encouraged them to continue supporting the administration and remain loyal to the party.
Governor Alia advised that those not reappointed should see their exit as an opportunity for others to contribute meaningfully to the development of the state. “We are opening up the space for other citizens to come in and serve. This is part of our continuous renewal for growth,” he said.
In response, Barrister Bemsen Mnyim, who until the dissolution served as Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, spoke on behalf of his fellow former Commissioners. He thanked Governor Alia for the opportunity to serve and described their time in office as a valuable learning experience.
“At every point in life, every position of responsibility is a learning platform. We have learnt a lot under your leadership,” Mnyim remarked.
The outgoing Commissioners have been directed to hand over the affairs of their respective ministries to the Permanent Secretaries without delay, ensuring a smooth transition while the administration prepares for the next round of appointments.