The Benue state House of Assembly on Tuesday suspended two of its former principal officers for acts of gross misconduct.

During the plenary in Makurdi, the Assembly resolved to suspend former Majority Leader, Mr. Saater Tiseer (APC/Mbagwa), for six months and former Minority Leader, Mr. Michael Audu (PDP/Adoka-Ugboju), for three months.

The decision followed a motion moved by the current Majority Leader, Mr. Thomas Dugeri (APC/Kwande West), who argued that the duo’s conduct while in office had brought the Assembly into disrepute.

Dugeri cited findings from an ad-hoc committee report which indicted both men for misusing their offices for personal gain, actions deemed incompatible with their oath of office and membership.

He stressed that the Assembly had a duty to discipline erring members to protect its integrity.

The motion was seconded by Dr. Elias Audu (APC/Gwer East), who emphasised that the stability of the Assembly was crucial to the stability of the state.

He further called for a special committee to collaborate with the Ethics Committee to probe deeper into the activities of the suspended leaders.

In his ruling, Speaker Mr. Alfred Emberga upheld the motion, declaring that the suspension would serve as a deterrent to other members.

“This action is necessary to safeguard the image of the House and ensure discipline among members,” Emberga stated.