Amanze Chinonye
The Benue State House of Assembly has suspended four of its members over an alleged attempt to impeach the Speaker, Aondona Hyacinth Dajoh.
The affected lawmakers are Alfred Berger (Makurdi North), Terna Shimawua (Kyan), Cyril Ekong (Obi), and James Umoru (Apa). Their suspension was announced during Thursday’s plenary in Makurdi after a motion of urgent importance was raised by the Majority Leader, Saater Tiseer.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelTiseer accused the lawmakers of attempting to plunge the Assembly into crisis through what he described as a “needless power struggle.” The motion, which was unanimously adopted, led Speaker Dajoh to direct the Sergeant-at-Arms to escort the suspended members out of the chamber.
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The Assembly further announced the appointment of Audu Elias as its new spokesperson, replacing Berger who was among those suspended.
While the House insisted the suspension was for six months, some reports earlier suggested a three-month sanction, highlighting uncertainty over the exact duration.
In his ruling, Speaker Dajoh said the move was necessary to preserve the integrity of the legislature, warning that any further acts aimed at destabilising the Assembly would attract stiffer disciplinary measures.
The suspension, which came after alleged attempts on Thursday night to impeach Dajoh, deepens the political tensions that have gripped the Benue legislature in recent weeks. The development points to widening cracks within the House, as factions reportedly maneuver for control of its leadership.
Analysts warn that such internal wrangling risks distracting lawmakers from their core responsibilities at a time when Benue is grappling with pressing governance challenges, including insecurity, poor infrastructure, and the welfare of its citizens.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
