Drama In Assembly! Failed Coup Against Benue Speaker Lands Four Lawmakers In Suspension

The Benue State House of Assembly has handed a six-month suspension to four lawmakers over their alleged involvement in a failed plot to impeach Speaker Aondona Dajoh.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The affected members include Alfred Berger (Makurdi North), Terna Shimawua (Kian), Cyril Ekong (Obi), and James Umoru (Apa).

According to the Assembly’s leadership, the suspension was a direct consequence of Thursday night’s botched move to unseat the Speaker, which it described as a clear affront to the House’s authority and internal order.

Confirming the decision, the House stated that the four lawmakers would be barred from legislative activities for six months as a disciplinary measure. The move has heightened political tension within the Assembly, with leaders warning that disruptive acts aimed at destabilising the legislature would not be tolerated.

Following the suspension, the House reshuffled its leadership, appointing Kennedy Angbo as Deputy Majority Leader, Douglas Akya as Deputy Chief Whip, and Elias Audu as the new House Spokesman.

Meanwhile, the Assembly proceeded with the screening of five commissioner nominees, though Ogwu Odeh and Imojime Tiza were deferred for a later date.

In a related development, the Edo State House of Assembly has confirmed eight commissioner nominees presented by Governor Monday Okpebholo. Those cleared include Barr. Nosa Adams, Yakubu Oshiorenua, Felix Akhabue, Prof. Omorodion Ignatius, Ohimai Ehijimetor, Eugenia Abdallah, Godwin Eshieshi, and Prince Kassim Afegbua.

The confirmation, processed through the Committee on Rules, Business, and Governmental Affairs, followed the governor’s request. Presenting the committee’s report, Speaker Blessing Agbebaku said the nominees were all indigenes of Edo State with the competence and experience required for their roles.

He urged them to be proactive and work closely with the governor to drive the state’s development agenda. However, Agbebaku expressed concern over gender imbalance, noting that only one woman was among the eight appointees.