The Speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly, Aondona Dajoh, has resigned his position, citing the best interest of the state and his colleagues.
Dajoh’s Resignation Letter
According to Channels TV, Dajoh confirmed his resignation in a letter dated August 24, 2025, and addressed to the House. He described his decision as an act of good faith.
In the letter titled “Resignation as Speaker, Benue State House of Assembly”, he appreciated fellow lawmakers for giving him the opportunity to serve as first among equals.
The Gboko West representative added that he would remain dedicated to his role as a legislator and to the service of his constituents.
Berger Emerges as New Speaker
Following the resignation, the House held an emergency plenary session presided over by Deputy Speaker Lami Ogenyi. Lawmakers suspended their standing rules to fast-track the election of a new Speaker.
The assembly elected Alfred Berger, member representing Makurdi North, as the new Speaker. His earlier suspension and that of three colleagues were set aside during the session.
Berger, who enjoys the backing of Governor Hyacinth Alia, pledged cooperation with Dajoh and other lawmakers to advance Benue’s development agenda.
Suspended Members and Impeachment Attempt
Just days earlier, the House had suspended four lawmakers, Berger, Terna Shimawua, Cyril Ekong, and James Umoru, for six months.
The Majority Leader, Saater Tiseer, moved the motion, accusing them of attempting to impeach Dajoh the night before. The Sergeant-at-Arms escorted them out of the chambers after the decision.
Dajoh then appointed Audu Elias as the new House spokesperson, replacing Berger.
Governor Alia Denies Involvement
Meanwhile, Governor Hyacinth Alia denied any role in the impeachment controversy. His Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, released a statement clarifying the governor’s position.
“The governor is not aware of, nor involved in, any attempt to remove the Speaker,” the statement read. It emphasized his cordial working relationship with the assembly.
Commissioner Nominee Rejected
A day before Dajoh’s resignation, the House screened and confirmed six commissioner nominees but rejected Timothy Ornguga.
Ornguga, a law professor, faced four petitions from former students and could not present a primary school certificate.
Lawmakers also raised concerns about his academic records. Consequently, the assembly asked Governor Alia to submit replacements for Ornguga and James Dwen, who both failed to clear the petitions.
