In response to the tragic killing of over 250 people in Yelwata, the Benue State House of Assembly has called on Governor Hyacinth Alia to declare Friday, 20 June 2025, a public holiday to mourn the victims.
The resolution was passed during an urgent plenary session where legislators expressed solidarity with grieving families and condemned the rising wave of violence in the region.
During the same sitting, the Assembly resolved to lift the suspension of six legislators, part of a group of thirteen who were sanctioned on 19 February for violating House protocol by holding an unauthorised press conference.
Majority Leader Saater Tiseer, who moved the motion, stated that while the three-month suspension officially lapsed in May, the actions of the suspended members — including filing a lawsuit against the Assembly and testifying against it at the national level — raised doubts about their willingness to reconcile.
Minority Leader Michael Audu, in his response, noted that six lawmakers had taken responsibility and apologised in writing. He called for their immediate reinstatement, arguing that only those who demonstrated remorse should be allowed to return.
Echoing this, Peter Ipusu, representative of Katsina-Ala West, added that while internal disagreements were not unusual, accountability and humility were essential for unity.
Speaker Hyacinth Dajoh agreed with the recommendation, confirming the reinstatement of the six members. He insisted that the other seven would remain suspended unless they issue formal apologies similar to their colleagues.
The lawmakers reinstated are: Solomon Gyila, Elias Audu, Anyor Mato, Simon Gabo, William Ortyom, and Blessed Onah.
