By Ismaeel Aleem
The Benue State House of Assembly has elected Hon. Alfred Emberga Berger, representing Makurdi North State Constituency, as its new Speaker during an emergency plenary session on Sunday.
The election follows the sudden resignation of the former Speaker, Hon. Aondona Dajoh, earlier in the day, marking a dramatic shift in the state’s legislative leadership.
Dajoh, who represented Gboko West, announced his resignation in a letter dated August 24, 2025, stating it was “in good faith and in the best interest of the state” and expressed gratitude to his colleagues for the opportunity to serve as Speaker and vowed to continue his legislative duties.
The New Daily Prime earlier reported that the resignation comes amid heightened political tensions, following the suspension of four lawmakers, including Berger, on August 22, 2025, for allegedly plotting to impeach Dajoh. The Assembly reportedly lifted Berger’s suspension during Sunday’s session, paving the way for his unanimous election as Speaker.
Berger, previously the Deputy Chief Whip, was sworn in during a heavily secured session, with a notable military presence at the Assembly complex.
READ ALSO: Benue Assembly suspends four lawmakers over failed speaker impeachment plot
Governor Hyacinth Alia has distanced himself from the crisis, emphasising respect for legislative autonomy.
As Benue navigates this political upheaval, all eyes are on Berger to stabilize the Assembly and address the state’s pressing legislative agenda. Details on the transition and its implications continue to unfold.
