…ensures justice for complainants
The Commissioner of the Public Complaints Commission (PCC) in Benue State, James Oche Ogaba, conducted ten case conferences on March 19, 2025, delivering verdicts aimed at promoting administrative justice and fair dispute resolution.
Among the notable cases was a complaint by the Ezza Community in Ado Local Government against Agbo Samuel and Michael Ojah. The community accused them of destroying economic trees and engaging in criminal activities to displace the Ezza people. Oche ruled that the Ezza people were indigenous to Ado and had lived there for many years. However, he adjourned the case to allow the Commission to review the documents submitted by the respondents. A minute of silence was observed in memory of a young girl who allegedly died following a rape incident involving some members of the respondents’ group.
In another case, IGJ Ltd accused the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Makurdi, of violating the Public Procurement Act during an auction of property items. The Medical Director explained that the auction had been cancelled in December 2024, following advice from the Federal Ministry of Works due to procedural lapses. Oche advised that future auctions should be conducted transparently, with PCC officials invited to observe the process and ensure fairness.
A case of job racketeering was also presented by Anthony Inalegwu and six others against Loretta Nungwa Alfa of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund. The complainants alleged that the respondent collected N2.5 million from them with a promise of employment but failed to deliver, only refunding part of the money and leaving an outstanding balance of N1.8 million. After hearing testimonies, Oche recommended that a payment plan be established, requiring the respondent to refund the balance within six months, starting from June 2025.
Another case involved Sule James and 62 others, who accused the Benue State Pension Commission of failing to pay their pensions and gratuities for several years. The Commission explained that the government had begun paying some arrears since June 2023 and was exploring ways to settle all outstanding claims. Oche urged the government to intensify its efforts to ensure full payment to the complainants.
Jessy Orokpo also lodged a complaint against Hon. Oko Michael E., the former Chairman of Obi Local Government, alleging that he was underpaid for a contract awarded in 2009. Oche adjourned the case after Orokpo promised to provide documentary evidence.
In a landlord-tenant dispute, Mercy K. Shagba accused her tenant, Terfa Iorember, of refusing to pay his N35,000 rent. Although the respondent promised to settle the debt, Oche personally paid the amount on his behalf.
The Commissioner also addressed a long-standing case involving the non-reinstatement of four Obi Local Government staff despite a 2011 court ruling in their favour. As three co-respondents failed to appear, the case was rescheduled.
Two cases were filed against Royal Fountain International School over the non-payment of salaries. As the respondent failed to appear, Oche ordered that they be re-invited.
A key highlight of the proceedings was the presentation of N70,000 to a loan firm, the Trustworthy Foundation, which had been recovered from a debtor.
Commending the staff of the Commission for their dedication, Oche assured them that their welfare would remain a priority while reaffirming the PCC’s commitment to promoting justice and resolving disputes effectively.
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