Former Benue Speaker Dajoh and 36 Others Win PDP Assembly Tickets

Context The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Benue State announced on 22 May 2026 that it has finalized its slate of 37 consensus candidates for the state legislature. The list was released by State Publicity Secretary Bright Yima Antyo in Makurdi and includes a mix of incumbents, party officials and newcomers.

Key Facts - Hyacinth Aondona Dajoh, who resigned as Speaker in August 2025 after a crisis in the Assembly, switched from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the PDP following his withdrawal from the APC primary. He now contests the Gboko West seat under the PDP banner. - The PDP’s candidate roster covers all 30 constituencies, naming individuals such as Ayo Jeremiah Terungwa (Kwande East) and Igbaakaa Aondoakura James (Konshisha 1). - Among the list is Bemgba Iortyom, the party’s state media consultant, slated for Mata constituency. - The former speaker’s successor, Alfred Emberga, is not listed among the PDP candidates, indicating a clear break from the previous leadership. - The affirmation process was described as a consensus, meaning the party avoided a contested primary in each constituency.

What It Means Dajoh’s defection underscores the fluidity of Benue’s political allegiances ahead of the 2027 elections. By securing the PDP ticket, he positions himself to leverage the party’s strong grassroots network, which could offset the advantage he lost by leaving the ruling APC. The broad slate of candidates suggests the PDP aims to present a unified front, potentially increasing its chances to reclaim the state assembly from the APC, which currently holds a majority.

The upcoming campaign will test whether the consensus approach translates into voter support across Benue’s diverse constituencies. Watch for early polling data and any intra‑party disputes that could emerge as the election draws near.