The nomination of Associate Professor Timothy Yangien, a lecturer at the Faculty of Law, Benue State University, as a commissioner in Benue State has sparked disagreement among the university’s alumni. Governor Hyacinth Alia recently named Yangien as one of his commissioner nominees, but this move has not gone down well with all former students of the institution.
Some alumni, particularly from the Law Faculty, submitted a petition to the Benue State House of Assembly, raising concerns about Yangien’s suitability for the role. They claimed that appointing him to a higher position could give him another opportunity to misuse power, based on his past actions.
In contrast, another group of alumni also wrote to the Assembly, but their message was one of support. They described Yangien as a man of integrity, professionalism, and commitment to excellence. According to them, his track record shows that he is more than qualified for the commissioner role.
While the two groups continue to express their opposing views, the governor’s next move remains uncertain. At the time of this report, it was not yet clear whether Governor Alia would act on the petition and withdraw the nomination or leave the decision to the House of Assembly.