The Benue State House of Assembly has witnessed another political twist as Hon. Alfred Emberga, representing Makurdi North, emerged the new Speaker after the sudden resignation of Hon. Hyacinth Dajoh.
Dajoh stepped down on Sunday through a resignation letter addressed to the Clerk, ending days of tension and power tussle within the House. Emberga, who was previously suspended alongside three other lawmakers for attempting to impeach the former Speaker, bounced back dramatically to clinch the top seat.
The emergency session, presided over by Deputy Speaker Mrs. Lami Ogenyi, saw the Majority Leader, Hon. Saater Tiseer, move a motion to forgive and recall the suspended members. Once accepted, the House immediately proceeded with the election, and Emberga was nominated by Hon. Douglas Akya and seconded by Hon. Abu Umoru. He was sworn in without opposition.
In his acceptance speech, Emberga hailed his predecessor for bowing out honorably and promised to lead with fairness and inclusiveness. He called on members to unite for peace, development, and good governance in Benue State. According to him, the Assembly must put aside personal interests to make laws that will uplift the lives of citizens and strengthen institutions.
Meanwhile, Dajoh, in his resignation letter, described his decision as one taken “in good faith and in the interest of the state.” He thanked his colleagues for the privilege to serve as Speaker and vowed to continue his legislative duties with commitment.
The development comes just days after four lawmakers, including Emberga, were suspended for leading impeachment moves against Dajoh. The political crisis escalated quickly but ended with a dramatic leadership change. Security was tightened around the Assembly complex as Emberga’s unanimous election was confirmed.
