The Benue State House of Assembly has elected Hon. Alfred Emberger as its new Speaker, following the sudden resignation of his predecessor, Hon. Aondona Dajoh.
Emberger’s emergence came under dramatic circumstances, as he was among the four lawmakers suspended last Friday over an alleged plot to unseat the former Speaker.
At an emergency plenary session on Sunday, presided over by Deputy Speaker Hon. Lami Danaldi-Ogenyi, the House moved swiftly to lift the suspension of the four lawmakers. The motion was raised by Majority Leader Hon. Saater Tiseer and seconded by Hon. Samuel Jiji of Logo Constituency.
“Following the motion raised by the majority leader and supported by members of the house, this house has resolved to lift the suspension of the four members,” the Deputy Speaker declared.
With their suspension lifted, the four members were formally ushered back into the chamber, clearing the path for the election of a new Speaker.
Hon. Douglas Akyaa, representing Makurdi South Constituency, nominated Emberger for the position, with Hon. Abu Umoru of Apa Constituency seconding the motion. With no rival nomination, Emberger was duly sworn in by the Clerk of the House, Mr. John Hwande.
In his acceptance speech, the new Speaker paid tribute to his predecessor for his service and pledged to lead with openness and fairness.
“To my esteemed colleagues, I assure you that this leadership will be anchored on inclusiveness, fairness, and respect for diverse opinions,” Emberger said. “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.”
The development marks a new chapter in the Benue Assembly, which has witnessed rising political tension in recent weeks.
