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Former Speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Aondona Dajoh, has made explosive allegations against Governor Hyacinth Alia, claiming he was removed from office for opposing the relocation of the Tor Tiv Palace from Gboko to Irugh, the governor’s hometown in Vandeikya Local Government Area.
Dajoh made the claims on Saturday during activities marking his 50th birthday celebration at Akpagher Mbatiav in Gboko Local Government Area. Addressing a gathering of political associates, traditional leaders, family members, and supporters, the former Speaker stated that Governor Alia personally conveyed the relocation proposal through an official letter, which he immediately rejected.
According to Dajoh, his refusal to support moving the revered traditional institution from its ancestral location in Gboko deeply angered the governor, who then moved swiftly to remove him from office. He further alleged that Moses Terngenge, a powerful figure in the governor’s inner circle, warned him that rejecting the proposal would mark the end of his speakership.
In a broader criticism of the governor’s administration, Dajoh claimed that over N200 million was allegedly expended in a failed attempt to remove the Chief Judge of Benue State, Justice Maurice Ikpambese. He also referenced a 2023 pre-election statement by Governor Alia in Jembagh, accusing him of acting against the interests of the Jembagh people.
Additionally, Dajoh addressed discrepancies in the cost of a road project from Wuru Kum to Air Force Base, claiming the contract was awarded for N28 billion, contrary to the governor’s assertion of N68 billion.
As of the time of these reports, the Benue State Government had not issued an official response to the allegations. The claims have sparked intense discussions across social media platforms, with many Tiv stakeholders expressing concern over the reported plan to relocate the Tor Tiv Palace.
The unfolding political drama highlights deepening divisions within Benue’s political landscape and raises questions about the relationship between the executive and legislative arms, as well as the protection of traditional institutions.
