Thugs attack House of Assembly members as Speaker resigns

David Iorhemba, the speaker of the Benue House of Assembly has resigned. He tendered his resignation on Thursday citing personal reasons.

Reports say Iorhemba handed his resignation letter to the Clerk of the House, Torese Agena, who in-turn handed it to the deputy speaker.The deputy speaker, Stephen Onmeje and the DS  read the letter out to all members..

According to the letter, Iorhemba said he took the decision to protect the interest of his family and for other personal reasons, adding that his resignation took effect from November 8, 2012. 

Members accepted the letter and Baba Odeh, (PDP-Otukpo/Akpa), moved a motion to declare the seat of Speaker vacant and should be filled without delay. His motion was seconded by Benjamin Adanyi (ACN-Makurdi South).  The deputy speaker later declared the position of speaker of the Benue State of Assembly vacant.

Some thugs who heard of the resignation gained entrance into the chamber of the assembly and chased members out.