Political Shake-Up in Benue as Emberga Becomes New Speaker
The Benue State House of Assembly witnessed a major leadership shake-up on Sunday, August 24, 2025, as Rt. Hon. Aondona Dajoh, Speaker of the Assembly, tendered his resignation.
The move came amidst mounting political tensions that had rocked the House in recent months.
Dajoh, who represented Gboko West Constituency, said his decision was taken “in good faith and in the best interest of Benue State.” He assured constituents that he would continue to serve them diligently, even as he stepped down from the top legislative position. His resignation followed weeks of unease within the Assembly, which had seen failed impeachment plots, the suspension of lawmakers, and disputes over executive-judiciary relations.
Within hours of his resignation, the Assembly convened an emergency session where members unanimously elected Hon. Alfred Emberga, representing Makurdi North Constituency, as the new Speaker.
Interestingly, Emberga himself was one of the four lawmakers previously suspended over an attempt to impeach Dajoh earlier in the year. His rise to the speakership is seen as a reconciliation move aimed at restoring unity in the House.
In his acceptance speech, Emberga pledged to lead with inclusiveness, fairness, and transparency. He called on colleagues to work together in harmony, assuring that his administration would promote a cordial working relationship with the executive arm while preserving the Assembly’s independence.
The change in leadership marks another chapter in the Assembly’s turbulent year. In February, 13 lawmakers were suspended for dissent, sparking controversy and federal concern. Though the majority were later reinstated after issuing apologies, the Assembly’s image has been clouded by internal strife.
Observers say the election of Emberga may signal a reset for the legislative body, which is under pressure to refocus on its constitutional responsibilities—particularly lawmaking, oversight, and representing the people—after months of political wrangling.
As the new Speaker takes the gavel, many in Benue are watching closely to see whether his leadership will restore stability and ensure that the Assembly works in the collective interest of the state.
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