The Benue State House of Assembly on Sunday evening elected Alfred Emberger as its new Speaker, following the sudden resignation of his predecessor, Aondona Dajoh, earlier in the day.
Dajoh, who represents Gboko West State Constituency, tendered his resignation in a letter dated Sunday August 24, 2025, titled “Resignation as the Speaker, Benue State House of Assembly.” In the letter, he described his decision as one taken in good faith and in the best interest of the state.
“I write to resign my position as the Speaker, Benue State House of Assembly, effective today, August 24, 2025. This is done in good faith and in the best interest of the state. I want to appreciate my dear colleagues for the opportunity they gave me to be the first among equals,” Dajoh stated.
He pledged to continue serving as a legislator, adding: “I remain committed to my duties as a legislator and representative of Gboko West State Constituency.”
Barely hours after his exit, the House convened an emergency sitting at about 4:30pm, which lasted until 7 pm to fill the leadership vacuum. The plenary, presided over by Deputy Speaker Lami Danladi-Ogenyi, also resolved to lift the suspension on four members who had been barred last Friday for attempting to remove Dajoh.
The motion to recall the suspended lawmakers was moved by the Majority Leader, Saater Tiseer, and seconded by Samuel Jiji of Logo Constituency. The House adopted the motion, after which the four members were ushered back into the chamber.
Subsequently, Douglas Akyaa of Makurdi South Constituency nominated Emberger for the position of Speaker, with Abu Umoru of Apa Constituency seconding the motion. With no other nominations, Emberger was unanimously elected and immediately took the oath of office administered by the Clerk of the House, John Hwande.
In his acceptance speech, the new Speaker praised Dajoh for his service and assured colleagues of an inclusive and transparent leadership.
“To my esteemed colleagues, I assure you that this leadership will be anchored on inclusiveness, fairness, and respect for diverse opinions. This 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,” Emberger said.