Speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly, Hon. Hyacinth Dajoh, has resigned his position, two days after suspending four lawmakers, including the Deputy Whip, Alfred Emberga.
Dajoh was said to have recently clashed with Governor Hyacinth Alia after insisting that some senior government officials, including the Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Comfort Adagba, be suspended for six months over alleged insubordination. The governor, however, approved only a one-month suspension. Sources said this disagreement escalated into a plot to remove the Speaker.
In his resignation letter, Dajoh said he stepped down in good faith and in the interest of the state, while pledging continued commitment to his legislative duties.
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At an emergency sitting on Sunday, presided over by Deputy Speaker Hon. Lami Ogenyi, the House recalled Emberga and three other suspended members. Emberga, who represents Makurdi North Constituency, was subsequently elected as the new Speaker.
The motion for Emberga’s recall was moved by Majority Leader Tiseer Saater and seconded by Peter Ipusu, representing Katsina-Ala West, while his election as Speaker was moved by Douglas Akya (Makurdi South) and seconded by Abu James (Apa).
In his acceptance speech, Emberga acknowledged the weight of his new responsibility and the expectations of Benue people. He praised his predecessor for his service and decision to resign, describing it as an act of courage and respect for the legislature.
He promised to run an inclusive leadership that respects diverse opinions, pledging cooperation with the executive and judiciary while safeguarding the Assembly’s independence.
“The House under my watch will uphold the dignity and integrity of the Assembly at all times,” he said. “Our people are yearning for development, peace, and good governance. It is our duty to rise above personal interests and partisan divides to make laws that improve lives, strengthen institutions, and advance the overall progress of Benue State.”
