Lawmakers say Dajoh failed to show remorse or apologise over alleged attempt to impeach Governor Hyacinth Alia.
The political crisis in the Benue State House of Assembly continues as former Speaker Aondona Dajoh’s suspension has been extended by six months by current Speaker Alfred Berger.
The motion for the extension was moved by Terna Shimawua (Kyan State Constituency, Vandeikya LGA) and seconded by Simon Gabo (Mata State Constituency, Ushongo LGA).
Lawmakers said the extension was necessary because Dajoh failed to show remorse or apologise for his alleged attempt to impeach Governor Hyacinth Alia.
During the proceedings, the House conducted a voice vote, affirming the six-month extension, which remains the Assembly’s primary disciplinary tool.
The Assembly also alleged that Dajoh colluded with former Majority Leader Saater Tiseer, who was suspended last week, to plot against Speaker Berger while serving his initial three-month suspension.
Unless a political resolution is reached, Dajoh is expected to serve a total of nine months out of the 2025 legislative year, leaving his constituents in Gbemacha (Gboko West) without representation.
Background of the Suspension
In August, the Benue State House of Assembly initially suspended Dajoh for three months over his alleged impeachment attempt. That motion was also moved by Terna Shimawua and seconded by James Umoru (Apa State Constituency).
Interestingly, Shimawua himself had been suspended by Dajoh just before the former Speaker resigned.
The new Speaker, Alfred Berger, reviewed Dajoh’s suspension and reduced it from six to three months at the time without the usual vote.
Other Developments in the Assembly
In August, the House confirmed the nomination of Timothy Yangien Ornguga, a law lecturer at Benue State University, as commissioner—reversing Dajoh’s previous rejection. James Dwem’s nomination was also reinstated.
Additionally, the House lifted suspensions on three political office holders previously suspended by the Governor:
- Grace Adagba, Chairman, Benue State Universal Basic Education Board
- Maxwell Ogiri, Otukpo Local Government Chairman
- Michael Uper, Secretary, State Lottery Board