The Benue State House of Assembly has elected Alfred Emberger as its new Speaker following the sudden resignation of Aondona Dajoh.
Emberger’s emergence came during an emergency plenary session on Sunday, which was presided over by Deputy Speaker Lami Danaldi-Ogenyi.
The session also saw the reversal of the suspension previously placed on four lawmakers, including Emberger, who had attempted to unseat the former Speaker.
Majority Leader Saater Tiseer moved the motion to lift the suspension, seconded by Samuel Jiji representing the Logo State Constituency. The resolution was unanimously adopted.
After the suspended members were welcomed back into the chamber, Douglas Akyaa, representing Makurdi South Constituency, nominated Emberger for the position of Speaker, while Abu Umoru of Apa Constituency seconded the nomination.
With no counter-nominations, Emberger was sworn in by the Clerk of the House, John Hwande.
In his acceptance speech, the new Speaker praised his predecessor for his service to the Assembly and the state.
He said: “I commend the former Speaker for his service and commitment to the progress of this House and the people of Benue State. To my esteemed colleagues, I assure you that this leadership will be anchored on inclusiveness, fairness, and respect for diverse opinions.”
Emberger further pledged to strengthen collaboration with other arms of government.
“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,” he added.
