MAKURDI: The Benue State House of Assembly has elected Alfred Emberga, representing Makurdi North State Constituency, as its new Speaker following Sunday’s resignation of Hyacinth Dajoh.
Dajoh stepped down via a handwritten letter addressed to the Clerk of the House, John Hwande, amid growing tension within the legislature.
His resignation came just two days after four lawmakers, led by Emberga, were suspended for three months over their alleged roles in an attempted impeachment plot against him.
An emergency session convened on Sunday afternoon under the leadership of Deputy Speaker, Mrs. Lami Ogenyi, dramatically shifted the Assembly’s course.
During the sitting, Majority Leader Saater Tiseer moved a motion for the reinstatement of the four suspended lawmakers, which was seconded by Peter Ipusu of Katsina-Ala West. The motion sailed through, paving the way for Emberga’s return.
Shortly after, Clerk Hwande read Dajoh’s resignation letter aloud on the floor of the House. The letter, dated August 24, 2025, stated in part: “I write to resign my position as the Speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly effective today, 24 August 2025. This is done in good faith and in the interest of the state. I want to appreciate my dear colleagues for the opportunity they gave me to be the first among equals. I pledge to remain committed to my duties as a legislator and representative of Gboko West State Constituency.”
Following the acceptance of his resignation, Deputy Speaker Ogenyi invited nominations for a new Speaker. Douglas Akya, representing Makurdi South, put forward Emberga’s name, which was seconded by Abu Umoru of Apa Constituency. Emberga accepted the nomination and was immediately sworn in.
In his inaugural address, the new Speaker praised his predecessor’s decision to resign, describing it as an act of courage and respect for the legislature.
“Our people look up to us to provide sound laws, effective oversight, and quality representation. While we acknowledge the service and contributions of Rt. Hon. Hyacinth Dajoh, we must now move forward together to strengthen this Assembly, uphold its integrity, and serve the people of Benue State with fairness, inclusiveness, and unity”, Emberga said.
He pledged to lead with transparency and cooperation, stressing that the Assembly would work with the executive and judiciary while safeguarding its independence.
The former Speaker’s exit and Emberga’s swift emergence as leader were witnessed under heavy security at the Assembly complex, underscoring the tense political atmosphere that has gripped the House in recent days.
