Benue suspends Muslim pilgrims welfare board Chair, Secretary

The government of Benue State has temporarily removed the head and deputy head of the Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board for three months, following complaints of improper usage of Hajj slots and mismanagement of funds. This decision was made by the State Executive Council on Monday, in order to begin an investigation into the claims made against the two officials.

The suspended individuals are Chairman Alhaji Abubakar Adamu and Executive Secretary Alhaji Ahmadu Alhassan. Information and Orientation Commissioner, Solomon Iorpev, announced this in a statement to journalists in Makurdi.

The complaints claim misuse of allocation of Hajj slots and improper handling of funds, as well as irregularities in the distribution of government aid. If proven true, these allegations would constitute serious misconduct in public service, and go against principles of accountability, transparency and probity. Iorpev stated that the suspension was needed to conduct a thorough investigation without hindering the truth of the situation. He reiterates that the suspension is not a verdict of guilt against the officials.

To ensure continuity during the suspension, the council approved Ahmed Tijani Adamu and Adamu Salihu Babi as Acting Chairman and Acting Executive Secretary respectively. These officials must immediately return all government property currently in their possession to the new acting officers. Under Governor Hyacinth Alia's leadership, the state government remains committed to transparency, accountability and proper management of public resources, especially those related to the welfare of pilgrims from Benue.