Benue State House of Assembly has clarified that the resignation of former Speaker Aondona Dajoh was his own voluntary decision, dismissing suggestions that Governor Hyacinth Alia influenced the move.
The Assembly’s spokesperson, Elias Audu, made this known on Monday in an interview on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief.
He explained that lawmakers operate independently and cannot be forced into making choices.
“If the governor had an interest, whatever it is, it is not within the knowledge of the Assembly. The Speaker was doing his job, and after some time, maybe because of certain decisions, he thanked the people for their support and said it was time to go,” Audu stated.
Lawmakers Emphasise Independence, Unity
This stance, Audu stressed, reflects the lawmakers’ collective commitment to maintaining their independence and working in unity despite political speculations.
He added, “I’m convinced that the Speaker resigned based on personal principle. We are in a political dispensation, but if there are political undertones, there is no fighting in the Benue Assembly. You can’t coerce members.”
Audu further stressed that Dajoh’s exit was in line with the “collective will” of lawmakers and did not signify any internal crisis.
“The immediate past Speaker voluntarily resigned. He came, he saw, he conquered, and he did his best for the state. When he said it was time to quit, members unanimously voted Honourable Berger Emberga as the new Speaker in a peaceful atmosphere,” he said.
Reaffirming the legislature’s independence, Audu noted: “We maintain the principle of separation of powers. Recently, the governor sent nominees, and we turned them down. If we think his policies are not in the interest of the people, we will tell him. Since 2023, the House has been at peace.”
Earlier, Governor Alia denied playing any role in Dajoh’s resignation, insisting he enjoys cordial relations with lawmakers and is committed to the state’s progress.
Dajoh, in a resignation letter submitted on Sunday, explained that his decision to leave office was made in good faith and with the state’s overall interest at heart.
During an emergency plenary session presided over by Deputy Speaker Lami Ogenyi, lawmakers unanimously set aside existing House rules to elect Berger Emberga, who represents Makurdi North, as the new Speaker.
Emberga, who had recently faced suspension along with three other members over an alleged impeachment plot, pledged to cooperate with his predecessor and fellow legislators in driving Benue’s development goals forward.
