The political atmosphere in Benue State took a dramatic turn on Sunday, August 24, 2025, as the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Aondona Dajoh, announced his sudden resignation. In a personally signed letter submitted to the Clerk of the House, Dajoh explained that his decision was taken in good faith and in the best interest of the state, adding that he would continue to serve his constituents in Gboko West as their representative.
The announcement came barely forty-eight hours after the suspension of four lawmakers—Alfred Berger of Makurdi North, Terna Shimawua of Kian, Cyril Ekong of Obi, and James Umoru of Apa—over allegations that they were plotting to unseat him. That development had deepened tension within the Assembly and fueled speculation of a looming impeachment crisis.
Governor Hyacinth Alia, whose name had been linked to the internal dispute, swiftly denied involvement in the crisis, insisting through his spokesperson that he had no hand in the alleged impeachment moves and remained committed to upholding the independence of the legislature.
The resignation of Dajoh, who only recently asserted his authority by disciplining perceived dissenters in the House, has therefore come as a surprise to many observers. His exit immediately throws up questions about the balance of power in the Assembly and the process of selecting his replacement at a time when stability is most needed in the state’s political space.
Security concerns have also been heightened, with reports of increased presence of troops around Makurdi in anticipation of possible unrest following the Speaker’s decision. Many citizens have taken to social media to express shock, while political analysts warn that the resignation may have far-reaching consequences for the ruling party and governance in Benue.
For now, the House is expected to convene in the coming days to elect a new Speaker and restore order to its leadership. Whether this move will calm the rising storm or open a fresh chapter of political battles remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the resignation of Aondona Dajoh has reshaped the conversation around loyalty, leadership, and the fragile dynamics of power within the Benue State House of Assembly.
