By NICHOLAS DECHI

The Benue State House of Assembly on Tuesday recommended the indefinite suspension of the Executive Secretary (ES), Benue State Sports Marketing and Lottery Board, Mr Michael Uper, over allegations of financial misconduct and abuse of office.

The recommendation followed the consideration of a report led by the House Standing Committee on Finance, Dr Matthew Damkor (APC/Tiev), detailing findings from its investigation into the activities of the board.

Damkor said that the committee uncovered multiple infractions, including a conflict of interest, as the executive secretary doubled as a consultant to the board through his private firm, Upper Premier Services Limited.

He said that Uper configured and controlled a payment solution platform used for revenue collection by the board, with exclusive access to its backend.

According to him, several accounts linked to Uper and his company were used as receiving accounts for government revenues.

He stated that between September 2024 and July 2025, a total sum of N208.5 million was collected through the accounts associated with the executive secretary via the platform.

He also accused him of denying the committee access to critical documents that could have strengthened the investigation, as well as failing to provide evidence of proper documentation with the Office of the Secretary to the State Government.

He listed several bank accounts belonging to both Uper and Upper Premier Services Limited tied to the revenue collection system and linked to his Bank Verification Number (BVN).

He raised concerns over the conduct of other officials connected to the board.

Mr Bemdoo Ipusu (APC/Katsina-Ala) disclosed that the executive secretary refused to honour invitations to appear before the house committees.

Mr Cephas Dyako (APC/Konshisha) described him as evasive and accused him of withholding key information.

Mr Anthony Agom (APC/Okpokwu) said that Uper was involved in misappropriation of state funds.

The Deputy Chief Whip, Mr Simon Gabo (APC/Mata), accused him of abusing his office by exercising overlapping authority within the agency.

The Speaker, Mr Alfred Emberga, in his ruling said that the executive secretary should be suspended indefinitely because he was not working for the interest of the state.

He said that it would not be in the best interest of the state for Uper to continue to superintend over the affairs of the board.

He said that the suspension would allow for proper restructuring of the agency.

The house also indicated that further actions may be taken as efforts continue to ensure accountability and transparency in the management of public funds in the state. (NAN)

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