The Deputy Speaker in A New Approach to Serving the People in Benue’s 10th Assembly.

By Raymond Enoch

Two years into the life of the 10th Benue State House of Assembly, its Deputy Speaker, Hon. Mrs. Lami Danladi Ogenyi, says the legislative body has redefined governance by adopting a people-first approach—and credits Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia for enabling what she calls “an era of purposeful service.”

Speaking in a recent exclusive interview, Hon. Ogenyi, who represents Ado Constituency, praised the Assembly’s progress, declaring it “exceptional from every other Assembly,” particularly when measured against its immediate predecessor. She emphasized that the 10th Assembly has not only passed the highest number of bills and motions in the state’s history, but has also made tangible impacts in governance, peacebuilding, and grassroots development.

“I want to thank God Almighty for sending a Messiah to our state,” she said. “His Excellency has brought a smile to our faces. During the 9th Assembly, members were not even given vehicles. Today, every member drives a Prado Jeep worth over a hundred millions.

The Deputy Speaker commended Governor Alia’s efforts in not just supporting lawmakers materially, but in improving the entire legislative environment. She noted the comprehensive renovation of the Assembly Complex and offices, with full project funding already released.

“If the contractor hasn’t completed the work, it’s not the fault of the Governor. He has done his part,” she clarified.

More than legislative improvements, Ogenyi credited the administration’s pro-people policies, such as payment of backlogged salaries and pensions, for restoring dignity to the lives of civil servants and retirees.

“Unlike the past government that owed workers for four years, forcing many into avoidable deaths due to lack of medical care, this administration has turned things around,” she remarked.

One of Hon. Ogenyi’s standout achievements is her role in brokering peace between the long-warring communities of Agila (in Benue) and Ngbo (in Ebonyi State). A conflict that had spanned over 150 years was finally addressed during her tenure—an achievement she calls miraculous.

“It started as a simple idea,” she recalled. “We set up a committee and met with leaders like Hon. Eze Nwachukwu and Chief Mike Okibe Onoja. From Otukpo to Ebonyi’s Government House, and then to Agila and Ngbo, we held multiple meetings. Today, there is peace.”

She proudly noted that the resolution has had socioeconomic ripple effects, with both communities now engaging in intermarriages and trade.

Hon. Ogenyi’s influence also extends to the grassroots. In Apa Council Ward and Agila, she has supported schools through the provision of clean water, generator-powered electricity, renovated toilets, and fully furnished classrooms.

“Two new school blocks have been built and roofed, and we’re installing chairs, whiteboards, and fans. Toilets are next,” she said.

She has also revived over 25 abandoned boreholes and completed the construction of a solar-powered mosque in Utonkon.

“I promised a borehole for the mosque too, and that project will commence this August,”

The Deputy Speaker has empowered her constituents with business start-up funds, job placements, and educational scholarships—particularly for the girl child.

“I have girls in medical school, law, and several who’ve gone from primary to university through my scholarship. I’ve also helped over a dozen young people secure jobs in the army, police, civil defence, and the College of Education,” she noted.

But one of her most impactful programs has been a massive medical outreach across Ado local government. Over 1,000 people were treated, 250 received eyeglasses, and over 20 underwent surgeries—all funded by her office, costing over ₦160 million.

“People came even from Ebonyi State. The turnout was overwhelming, and the gratitude, humbling,” she said.

Despite tensions that typically characterize Nigerian politics, Hon. Ogenyi spoke of a rare camaraderie within the 10th Assembly.

“We operate like a family. We had that bond even before elections. We communicate regularly, resolve issues maturely, and support the Governor fully. Any talk of impeachment is not only baseless but impossible—we won’t support it.”

She added that while not every legislator may be fully satisfied, Governor Alia has done more than enough to earn their trust and backing.

“There will always be complaints—perfection is impossible. But overall, the Governor is doing his best, and we, the 10th Assembly, are proud to stand by him,” she concluded.

In her second year as Deputy Speaker, Hon. Lami Danladi Ogenyi has emerged as a dynamic legislator, peace ambassador, and community leader. From brokering historic peace deals to transforming schools and hospitals, her tenure underscores a shift in the narrative of Benue politics—from rhetoric to result.

And with continued support from Governor Alia, the 10th Benue State House of Assembly is writing a new chapter—one anchored on unity, service, and a shared vision for a better Benue.