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As the political landscape in Benue State heats up, I, Hon Comr Titus Iornenge Targuma, National Coordinator of APC-National Youth Network APC-NYN Worldwide Support Platform, share my thoughts on the recent appointment of Berger Alfred Emberga as the Speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly (BSHOA). This decision by Governor Alia has sparked controversy, but I believe it reflects a strategic move to maintain loyalty and stability.
“Many people were upset when the Speaker position was taken from Jemgbagh, the largest political block, and given to Lobi, a group that wasn’t originally zoned for the position,” I observe. The backlash stems from accusations that Governor Alia ignored zoning principles, a precedent set by the Kwande incident, where the SSG position was reassigned from Gwer to the ruling block. Yet, I argue this was a necessary step given the political dynamics at play.
I’ve learned that Governor Alia conducted a thorough search within Zone B and found Berger to be the only assembly member loyal enough to follow his directives. “The Governor considered keeping the Speaker position in Jemgbagh, but none of the members met the loyalty test. Hon. Becky, Sen. Akume’s nephew, got his seat thanks to his uncle, the SGF, while Hon. Manger’s loyalty to Akume made him unsuitable for the role,” I quote myself, highlighting the internal conflicts that influenced this choice. Similarly, in the Gwer ruling block, Adu’s ties to Achado and Solomon Gila’s association with the Governor’s dislike for Achado ruled them out. Other potential candidates like Hon. Uche and Douglas Aya were entangled with Akume and had long been political enemies of the Governor, leaving Berger as the best option.
Taking the speakership from Jemgbagh was one of Governor Alia’s toughest decisions. “In politics, people often say what you want to hear. The Governor might have been told that Dajor’s unity efforts among the disloyal members were a threat, and the rumored impeachment threat was real,” I note. This suggests Alia acted preemptively to secure his position, even if it meant defying Jemgbagh’s expectations. “The Governor was ready to put his integrity on the line and to take drastic measures, even if it meant going against Jemgbagh,” I add, emphasizing his resolve.
As for the betrayal by Douglas and others against Dajor, the full story remains untold. “Why Douglas and others betrayed Dajor will still be said later,” I tease, hinting at future revelations. For now, I extend my congratulations to Berger Alfred Emberga, the new Speaker. “Congratulations my brother,” I say, celebrating this appointment while acknowledging the complex political maneuvering behind it.
In my view, this move underscores the delicate balance of power in Benue State. Governor Alia’s choice, though controversial, appears driven by a need to consolidate loyal support amidst potential threats. The journey ahead will reveal more, but for now, I stand by this decision as a bold step toward stability.
– Hon Comr Titus Iornenge Targuma
National Coordinator, APC-NYN Worldwide Support Platform
