The Benue State House of Assembly has elected Hon. Alfred Emberga, representing Makurdi North Constituency, as its new Speaker, following the sudden resignation of his predecessor, Hon. Aondona Dajoh.
Emberga was sworn in on Sunday during an emergency plenary session presided over by Deputy Speaker, Hon. Lami Ogenyi. In his acceptance speech, he pledged to lead with fairness, inclusivity, and transparency while working closely with his colleagues and Governor Hyacinth Alia to advance the state’s development agenda.
“This is a call to service and a renewed responsibility,” Emberga said. “My focus will be on stabilising the House, reconciling past divisions, and ensuring that we deliver on our legislative mandate for the people of Benue.”
His election came just days after the House unanimously lifted the suspension placed on him and three other lawmakers, who were earlier accused of plotting to unseat Dajoh. To facilitate the leadership change, the chamber resolved to set aside its rules.
Dajoh, in his resignation letter dated August 24, 2025, explained that he stepped down in good faith and in the best interest of the state. He also assured his constituents in Gboko West that he remains committed to his legislative duties.
Before his suspension, Emberga served as the House spokesperson. He stressed that his leadership would prioritise reconciliation, adding that past disagreements were part of legislative politics and should not hinder collective progress.
“I hold no grudges. What matters now is unity, effective lawmaking, and supporting policies that will benefit our people,” he stated.
Meanwhile, Governor Hyacinth Alia, through his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, dismissed speculations linking him to the leadership change, insisting that the process was entirely an internal affair of the assembly.
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