Hon. Alfred Emberga, member representing Makurdi North Constituency, is the new Speaker, Benue State House of Assembly.
Emberga was elected on Sunday following the resignation of his predecessor, Hon. Aondona Dajoh.
Dajoh, in a hand-written letter, announced his resignation, stating that it was to allow peace reign.
However, observers said he is a victim of the power tussle between Governor Hyacinth Alia and other powerful politicians in the state.
Emberga has now been sworn in as the new speaker during an emergency plenary session presided over by Deputy Speaker, Hon. Lami Ogenyi.
He assured lawmakers of his commitment to work in unity with his colleagues, including the immediate past Speaker, to advance the state’s development agenda.
“I consider this a call to service and a renewed responsibility to lead with fairness, inclusivity, and transparency,” Emberga said after his election.
“My focus will be on stabilizing the House, healing past divisions, and working hand in hand with Governor Hyacinth Alia, my colleagues, and the people of Benue to deliver on our legislative mandate.”
Meanwhile, Governor Alia, who distanced himself from speculations linking him to the leadership change, has congratulated the new speaker.
He commended the swift process that led to the emergence of the new leader of the legislative arm of government in the State, saying the election of Hon. Emberga is a testament to the confidence reposed in him by his colleagues and a reflection of his commitment and ability to uphold democratic values.
This was contained in a statement on Monday by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Tersooo Kula.
According to the statement, "He expresses confidence that under the leadership of Honourable Emberga, the Benue State House of Assembly will continue to work tirelessly towards the formulation and enactment of laws and policies aimed at improving the lives of the people of the State.
"He calls on the legislative arm of government to continue to maintain a strong and cordial relationship with the executive and Judiciary arms, insisting that it is only through collaboration and cooperation that the state can be able to achieve sustainable development and deliver dividends of democracy that will reach every citizen.
"While he appreciates the outgone Speaker, Rt. Hon. Aondona Dajoh, for his contributions as the leader of the state legislature, the governor assures the newly elected Speaker, as well as all members of the Benue State House of Assembly, of his unwavering support and commitment to continue to work together for the overall good of the Benue.”
