The Speaker of Benue House of Assembly, Mr Hyacinth Dajoh, has resigned from his position.
Dajoh stepped down on Sunday through a letter addressed to the Clerk of the House.
The lawmaker indicated that his resignation as the speaker of the 10th assembly took effect from August 24.
“This is done in faith and in the best interest of the state,” he said.
Dajoh expressed appreciation to his colleagues for the opportunity given to him to serve and to be the first among equals.
He pledged to remain committed to his duties as a legislator and representative of Gboko West State Constituency.
Meanwhile, the Assembly has elected Mr. Alfred Emberga, representing Makurdi North State Constituency, as its new Speaker.
Mr. Emberga, who had led a group of four lawmakers in a bid to impeach the former Speaker last Thursday, was among those suspended for three months on Friday. However, in a dramatic twist, an emergency sitting was convened on Sunday afternoon, presided over by the Deputy Speaker, Mrs. Lami Ogenyi.
During the session, the Majority Leader, Mr. Saater Tiseer, moved a motion for the recall and forgiveness of the suspended members. The motion was seconded by Mr. Peter Ipusu of Katsina-Ala West Constituency.
Subsequently, the Clerk of the House, Mr. John Hwande, read a resignation letter from Mr. Dajoh. The House adopted the letter and immediately moved to elect a new Speaker.
Mrs. Ogenyi called for nominations, during which Mr. Douglas Akya of Makurdi South nominated Mr. Emberga. The nomination was seconded by Mr. Abu Umoru of Apa Constituency. Emberga accepted and was promptly sworn in as Speaker.
In his acceptance speech, Mr. Emberga paid tribute to his predecessor, commending his courage and respect for the legislature in resigning.
He pledged to lead with inclusiveness, fairness, and respect for diverse opinions, while ensuring that the House maintains a harmonious working relationship with the Executive and Judiciary without compromising its independence.
“I call on all members to join hands with me in unity of purpose. Our people are yearning for development, peace, and good governance. It is our duty to rise above personal interests and partisan divides to make laws that will improve lives, strengthen institutions, and advance the overall progress of Benue State,” he said.
