From Joseph Uchenna, in Makurdi
The Speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly Hon. Hyacinth Aondona Dajoh on Sunday resigned his position.
The resignation comes two (2) days after four members of the House including the Deputy Whip/spokesman of the House Alfred Emberga representing Makurdi North State Constituency, was suspended by the House.
Emberga was alleged to have hatched a plot to remove the ousted Speaker and supposedly, the favorite to take over from Dajoh.
Citizenship Daily gathered that Dajoh may have incurred the wrath of the Governor recently when he insisted that some top government officials including the SUBEB Chairman Comfort Adagba be suspended for 6 months for insubordination.
Though the Governor suspended Adagba for one month but plot thickened to Impeach the former Speaker Dajoh.
In his resignation letter, Dajoh said he relinquished his position in good faith and in the interest of the State, pledging to remain committed to his legislative duties.
Meanwhile, in an emergency sitting presided over by the Deputy Speaker Hon Lami Ogenyi on Sunday evening, the house recalled the suspended Alfred Emberga and elected him as the new Speaker.
Emberga who represents Makurdi North State Constituency was recalled and re-admitted alongside three other members. The motion to recall him was moved by the Majority Leader Tiseer Saater and seconded by Peter Ipusu representing Katsina-Ala West.
The motion to elect the new speaker was moved by Douglas Akya representing Makurdi South and seconded by Abu Umoru James representing Apa State Constituency.
In his acceptance speech, the new speaker Alfred Emberga said he acknowledged the weight of the office and the expectations of Benue people, who look up to the House to provide sound laws, effective oversight, and quality representation.
Said he: “I wish to sincerely appreciate my predecessor, Rt. Hon. Aondona Dajoh, 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.
“To my esteemed colleagues, I assure you that this leadership will be anchored on inclusiveness, fairness, and respect for diverse opinions. The House under my watch will work harmoniously with the Executive and Judiciary, while maintaining our independence, in line with the principle of separation of powers.
“Together, we shall ensure that the dignity and integrity of this Assembly is upheld at all times,
“Finally, 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.”
