By Amos Aar
THE BENUE State House of Assembly on Tuesday, lifted the suspension on the remaining seven out of thirteen members earlier sanctioned on February 19, 2025.
The lawmakers recalled during plenary include Hon. Douglas Akya (Makurdi South), Hon. Mrs. Becky Orpin (Gboko East), Hon. Manger Manger (Tarka), Hon. Ezrah Nyiyongu (Ukum), Hon. Jonathan Agbidye (Katsina-Ala East), Hon. Samuel Agada, and Hon. Abraham Jabi.
Their reinstatement comes weeks after six of their colleagues were recalled on June 18, 2025. Those recalled at the time were Solomon Gyila (APC/Gwer West), Elias Audu (APC/Gwer East), Anyor Mato (APC/Kwande East), Simon Gabo (APC/Mbat), William Ortyom (PDP/Agasha), and Blessed Onah (PDP/Oju I).
According to Mr. Terver Zamber, Chief press secretary to the speaker, the final batch of lawmakers were recalled following a letter presented on the floor by the House Majority Leader, Comrade Saater Tiseer. The letter indicated that the affected members had expressed remorse and submitted written apologies, pledging to abide by the rules and uphold decorum within the legislative chamber.
During deliberations, lawmakers including Hon. Bemdoo Ipusu and Hon. Elias Audu supported the motion for their recall, stating that the lawmakers’ contrition was adequate justification for reinstatement.
The House further commended the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Hyacinth Aondona Dajoh, and the Assembly leadership for their and reconciliatory handling of the disciplinary process.
It would be recalled that the thirteen lawmakers were suspended in February over allegations of misconduct and violations of legislative ethics. With the latest action, all suspended members have now been reinstated.
