By Richard Benjamin
The Benue State House of Assembly has urged Governor Hyacinth Alia to approve an upward review of the salaries and allowances of traditional rulers to ensure that none earns below the ₦75,000 minimum wage.
The resolution followed the adoption of a motion on Wednesday titled “Motion to Improve the Welfare of Traditional Rulers in Benue State in Line with the Prevailing Minimum Wage,” sponsored by Mr Douglas Akya (APC/Makurdi South), Mr Peter Uche (APC/Guma I) and Mrs Beckie Orpin (APC/Gboko East).
Leading the debate, Akya described traditional rulers as key partners in governance, saying they play vital roles in preserving cultural heritage, promoting peace, resolving communal disputes and supporting government programmes.
He argued that despite their growing responsibilities, the salaries and allowances of traditional rulers had remained inadequate amid rising inflation and the increasing cost of living.
Akya noted that while the Benue State Government had implemented the ₦75,000 minimum wage for civil servants, the remuneration of traditional rulers had yet to reflect the new wage structure. He also said many traditional rulers lacked official vehicles, which affected their ability to carry out their responsibilities effectively.
Seconding the motion, Mr Peter Ipusu (APC/Katsina-Ala) called for a review of the Benue State Chieftaincy Law, describing the existing legislation as outdated and in need of amendment to reflect current realities.
He also urged the state government to provide official vehicles for traditional rulers to improve their mobility and operational efficiency. Ruling after the debate, Speaker Alfred Emberga directed the Clerk of the House, Dr Bem Mela, to transmit the Assembly’s resolutions to the Bureau of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs and the Ministry of Finance for necessary action.
The Assembly recommended that the salary review should ensure no traditional ruler earns below ₦75,000 per month while maintaining a graded remuneration structure based on the status of each traditional institution.
Lawmakers also called on the Bureau of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, in collaboration with the Ministry of Finance and the Benue State Traditional Council, to develop a sustainable salary framework and institutionalise periodic reviews in line with future adjustments to the minimum wage.
The House further urged the state government to provide official vehicles for traditional rulers, beginning with kindred heads, to strengthen grassroots leadership and improve service delivery.
