The Benue State Executive Council has approved the three-month suspension of the Chairman and Executive Secretary of the Benue State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board following petitions alleging irregularities in Hajj slot allocations and the management of public funds.
The suspensions took effect on Monday, September 21, 2026, according to a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Solomon Iorpev.
The affected officials are Chairman Alhaji Abubakar Adamu and Executive Secretary Alhaji Ahmadu Alhassan.
Allegations Under Investigation
The petitions reportedly alleged misuse of Hajj slot allocations and financial mismanagement. The petition involving the Executive Secretary also raised allegations concerning irregularities in the distribution of government palliatives.
The state government said the suspension was intended to facilitate a thorough investigation and prevent interference with the process.
Iorpev emphasised that the suspension does not amount to a finding of guilt against either official.
Acting Appointments
To ensure continuity in the board’s operations, the Executive Council approved the appointment of Ahmed Tijani Adamu as Acting Chairman and Adamu Salihu Babi as Acting Executive Secretary.
The suspended officials were directed to hand over government property in their custody to the respective acting officers.
The state government reaffirmed its stated commitment to transparency, accountability and proper management of public resources associated with the welfare of intending pilgrims.
Due Process and Public Accountability
The investigation will be expected to establish whether the allegations are substantiated and whether any administrative or legal action is warranted.
The suspension is an interim administrative measure, and the allegations should not be treated as proven misconduct before the conclusion of the investigation.