Following the non-payment of their six months’ salary arrears and allowances, the Benue State House of Assembly members have suspended their plenary.
As a result of the suspension, the controversial Executive Pension Bill sent to the house by Governor Samuel Ortom for approval is on hold.
The bill reportedly grants past Governors of the state four new cars every four years and permanent accommodation. And also proposes hiring six personal staff for ex-governors and three for their deputies.
The bill, which has passed its first reading, provides free medical treatment for the governor’s family, including four of their children under 18.
Hon. Bem Mngutyo, a member of the House, on Thursday disclosed that the House “resolved not to sit until our emoluments and salaries are paid”, The Nation reported.
Mngutyo further hinted that Governor Ortom met with the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, members of the House last weekend over the issue and promised to pay the arrears of allowances and salary with the state’s May federal allocation before he exits office in the next 18 days.