Benue Assembly extends suspension of ex-speaker, former majority leader
Benue State Assembly Extends Suspension of Former Leaders
The Benue State House of Assembly has voted to extend the suspension of former Speaker Aondona Dajoh and former Majority Leader Saater Tiseer for an additional three months. This decision is pending the resolution of separate court cases filed by the two legislators against the Assembly, or the possible withdrawal of those suits.
The motion to extend the suspensions was passed during a plenary session on Tuesday, led by Speaker Berger Alfred. The motion, classified as urgent public business, was moved by Thomas Dugeri, the Majority Leader and representative of Kwande West State Constituency, and was seconded by Deputy Chief Whip Simon Gabo, who represents Mata State Constituency.
Following the adoption of the motion, the Assembly confirmed that the suspensions would remain in effect for another three months while awaiting the outcome of the court proceedings or the withdrawal of the lawsuits, in accordance with applicable legal guidelines.
In another development during Tuesday’s session, the Benue State Sports Marketing, Gaming and Lotteries Bill of 2026 passed its second reading. After discussion, Speaker Alfred Emberga directed that the bill be referred to the Joint House Committees on Finance, Youth, and Sports for further examination.
Earlier, in his opening remarks for the first session of the Fourth Legislative Session, Emberga welcomed members back from recess. He encouraged them to stay dedicated to their legislative duties, noting that the time away allowed lawmakers to engage with constituents and participate in political activities, including party primaries in preparation for the 2027 general elections.
Emberga characterized the Fourth Legislative Session as a pivotal period for the Assembly and urged members to concentrate on issues that directly affect the welfare of the citizens. He highlighted key priorities for the session, including security and peacebuilding, economic resilience, infrastructure development, improved revenue generation, effective oversight of ministries and agencies, and increased citizen engagement in the legislative process.
According to a statement from Zape Upaa, the Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker, Emberga called for continued cooperation with other branches of government while emphasizing the need for legislation that aligns with the desires and needs of the people of Benue State.
