Uproar in Benue assembly as Hyacinth-backed lawmaker becomes speaker

Aondonna Dajo has won the election to become speaker of the Benue house of assembly, amid commotion during proceedings. 

The lawmaker, who was reportedly backed by Alia Hyacinth, governor of the state, scored the highest number of votes in the second round of the election.

Following the inauguration of the 10th Benue assembly, the house commenced the election for the speakership position in the presence of the governor.

The first round ended in a tie of 16-16 between Becky Orpine (Gboko east) and Aondonna Dajo (Gboko west).

Cephas Diako, the only member from Labour Party (LP), advised that the second round of the election be held without the governor.

During the second round of voting, tempers flared and legislators backing both candidates engaged in shouting matches. 

Dajo was however declared winner of the contest afterwards.