The 10th Benue State House of Assembly has been inaugurated by Governor Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia to pave way for its 32 members to elect a speaker and deputy speaker.
The Governor who also charged the new legislators to collaborate with the Executive arm of government to deliver the expected dividends of democracy to the Benue people, urged them to be exemplary in their conduct.
He stressed that the Benue society has placed so many expectations hence the need to deliver. While he assured the lawmakers of his administration’s support at all times and solicited constructive engagements and support from the legislature and judicial arms of government to enable them to actualise set goals.
The Governor said, “The legislature not only gives the people a voice in affairs of government but provides the bedrock for the rule of law, equity, and justice to reign in the polity.
“Due to the big role the legislature plays side by side with the judiciary and the Executive arm of government, we are fully prepared to respect the sanctity of the doctrine of the separation of powers under a democracy.
“I will not interfere with the internal affairs of the legislature, especially in the election of its leaders. We are prepared to meaningfully work with those who you choose to lead the House.”
Alia advised members to choose from among themselves those that they will always be proud of their leadership qualities.
“We will support the House with the training and retraining of staff of members of the House.
“The Executive arm of government will work in harmony with the legislature and the judiciary to ensure effective service delivery to the people who are expecting so much from them.
“You are elected as agents of hope and change and I believe that this will always guide every one of your steps in the legislative business, oversight functions, and all their actions,” he added.