Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has dissolved the Benue State Executive Council, effectively relieving all serving commissioners of their duties.

The governor announced the decision at the end of the 12th Executive Council meeting held Wednesday night in Makurdi, the state capital.

In a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, Governor Alia also announced the appointment of Barr. Moses Atagher as the new Chief of Staff. Atagher is a former two-term Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in the state, and a former acting Managing Director of the Federal Mortgage Bank.

“His appointment takes immediate effect,” the statement noted.

Governor Alia expressed appreciation to the outgoing commissioners for their service over the past two years and urged those who may not be reappointed to remain committed to the party and continue contributing in other capacities.

“They are only paving the way for other citizens who may be chosen to replace them to also contribute their quota,” he said.

The statement clarified that the dissolution affects only commissioners, while the newly appointed Chief of Staff takes over his role immediately.

Speaking on behalf of the outgoing commissioners, Barr. Bemsen Mnyim thanked the governor for the opportunity to serve, describing the experience as a learning journey.

“At every stage in life, everywhere you are called to serve is a school. We have learnt a lot while working with you,” Mnyim said.

All former commissioners have been directed to hand over to the Permanent Secretaries in their respective ministries without delay.