In a swift and dramatic session, the Benue State House of Assembly has suspended former Speaker Aondona Dajoh for three months, citing allegations of an attempted impeachment of Governor Hyacinth Alia. The decision, taken on Tuesday, marks the latest twist in a growing political storm that has gripped the state’s legislative chamber.
The suspension was triggered by a motion moved by Terna Shimawua, member representing Kyan State Constituency, and seconded by James Umoru of Apa State Constituency. In a striking twist, Shimawua was among several lawmakers suspended by Dajoh just days before the former Speaker abruptly resigned from office last week. His return to the floor to lead the charge against his former boss has added fuel to the already tense political atmosphere.
Presiding over the session, new Speaker Alfred Berger upheld the motion but reduced the proposed six-month suspension to three months—without calling for a formal vote, a departure from standard legislative procedure. This unilateral decision by Berger has raised eyebrows, with political observers questioning the transparency and fairness of the process.
In a surprising reversal, the Assembly also confirmed the appointment of Dr. Timothy Yangien Ornguga as a commissioner—a nomination previously rejected under Dajoh’s leadership. Ornguga, a law lecturer at Benue State University, had been blocked last week amid petitions questioning his suitability. However, Speaker Berger, reading a letter from Governor Alia, stated that neither Ornguga nor James Dwem—one of two nominees initially rejected—had been convicted of any crime, and the governor urged their confirmation.
What followed stunned many: lawmakers who had vocally opposed the nominations just days earlier remained silent as Berger declared both Ornguga and Dwem confirmed—again, without the customary voice vote. The lack of debate or opposition suggests a significant shift in legislative dynamics following Dajoh’s exit.
The session also saw the lifting of suspensions on three key political officeholders previously removed by Governor Alia. They include Grace Adagba, Chairman of the Benue State Universal Basic Education Board; Maxwell Ogiri, Otukpo Local Government Chairman; and Michael Uper, Secretary of the State Lottery Board. Their reinstatement signals a potential thaw in the strained relationship between the executive and legislative arms of government.
Political analysts say the rapid sequence of decisions reflects a broader power recalibration within the Assembly. The fall of Dajoh—who once wielded considerable influence—highlights deepening factional divides, while the swift confirmation of the governor’s nominees suggests a new alignment in favor of the executive.
As tensions simmer, many are watching closely to see whether this new legislative direction will foster stability or deepen the rifts within Benue’s political landscape. For now, the message from the Assembly appears clear: a new era has begun—one defined by swift decisions, quiet opposition, and shifting loyalties.
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