The Benue State House of Assembly has elected Hon. Alfred Emberga, representing Makurdi North Constituency, as its new Speaker.
Emberga’s emergence came on Sunday after Dajoh, also known as Hyacinth, tendered a handwritten resignation letter addressed to the Clerk of the House. His decision brought an end to days of leadership tension within the Assembly.
The development unfolded during a plenary session presided over by Deputy Speaker, Lami Danaldi-Ogenyi. At the sitting, the House resolved to lift the suspension of four lawmakers who had been penalized the previous Friday for their attempt to impeach the former Speaker.
The Majority Leader, Saater Tiseer, moved the motion for the recall of the four suspended lawmakers, which was seconded by Peter Ipusu, member representing Katsina-Ala West Constituency.
The House adopted the motion before the Clerk, John Hwande, formally read Dajoh’s resignation letter.
Following the adoption of the letter, Mrs. Ogenyi invited nominations for a new Speaker. Douglas Akya of Makurdi South nominated Alfred Emberga, with Abu Umoru of Apa Constituency seconding the motion. Emberga accepted the nomination and was immediately sworn into office.
In his acceptance speech, Emberga expressed appreciation to his predecessor, lauding his commitment and service. “I commend the former speaker for his service and commitment to the progress of this House and to the people of Benue State. His decision to resign, though, may be difficult, reflects his courage and respect for the institution of the legislature. We shall continue to build on the foundation he has laid as we move forward together.”
“I consider this a call to service and a renewed responsibility to lead with fairness, inclusivity, and transparency,” Emberga said. He emphasized that the Assembly would work in harmony with the Executive and Judiciary while maintaining its independence.
“I call on all members to join hands with me in unity of purpose. 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 will improve lives, strengthen institutions, and advance the overall progress of Benue State,” he said.
