JUST IN: Governor Alia dissolves cabinet

Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has dissolved the state executive council, relieving all commissioners of their duties. The decision, which takes immediate effect, was announced at the conclusion of the 12th executive council meeting of 2025.

According to the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Terso Kula, the dissolution affects only the commissioners. Other senior government officials remain unaffected by the shake-up.

However, Governor Alia has appointed Barr. Moses Atagher, a seasoned administrator and former Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, as the new Chief of Staff. Atagher’s appointment takes immediate effect.

Barr. Atagher previously served as the Acting Managing Director of the Federal Mortgage Bank and is widely regarded as an experienced technocrat with a strong background in law and administration.

Governor Alia expressed appreciation to the outgoing commissioners for their service over the past two years. He commended their contributions to the administration and urged those not reappointed to remain loyal to the party and continue supporting the government.

“I sincerely thank you for your dedication and service to the people of Benue State. Your efforts have laid a solid foundation, and I encourage you to keep faith with our shared vision,” Alia said.

Speaking on behalf of the outgoing cabinet members, former Commissioner for Education, Barr. Bemsen Mnyim, thanked the governor for the opportunity to serve. He described the past two years as a rewarding experience and a significant learning curve for all involved.

The former commissioners have been directed to hand over responsibilities to the permanent secretaries in their respective ministries pending the appointment of a new cabinet.