Imo State House of Assembly on Monday impeached its Speaker, Mr Paul Emeziem (APC – Onuimo), during a special sitting.
Details of the impeachment process were not available at the time of report, but it was gathered that Emeziem’s removal followed a resolution signed by 19 of the 27 members of the house.
Mr Kennedy Ibeh (APC – Obowo), a second-term member of the assembly, has emerged the new Speaker.
Members of the house left the assembly’s premises as soon they finished the closed door sitting.
Emeziem had last week announced the impeachment of the Deputy Speaker of the assembly, Mr Amarachi Iwanyanwu.
He did not give any reason for the removal.
New Imo Speaker rallies support for Gov. Uzodinma
The new Speaker of the Imo House of Assembly, Mr Kennedy Ibeh, (APC Obowo), has urged members of the house to give their unalloyed support to the Gov. Hope Uzodimma.
Ibeh, who made the call while briefing journalists at the Deputy Speaker’s lodge on Monday, urged lawmakers to put their best foot forward and support the governor in his efforts to move the state forward.
He condemned the activities of the former Speaker, Paul Emeziem (APC Onuimo) while he was in office, particulary towards the impeachment of the Deputy Speaker, Mr Amarachi Iwuanyanwu (APC Nwangele).
He stated that Emeziem’s actions as speaker desecrated the office, adding that his impeachment was his reward for the alleged desecration.
He noted that lawmakers must carry out their primary functions, considering the interest of the state, adding that the sanity of the legislature will not be toyed with.
The speaker noted that the ninth house had a troubled history owing to the inexperience of past leaders and promised that there will be a positive turnaround.
He also assured people of the state that the house, under his leadership, would churn out motions, Bills and resolutions which will reflect the aspirations of Imo people.
He, therefore, pledged to carry out his duties as speaker to the best of his ability and urged other members of the house to ensure the progress of the house.
Recall that Emeziem was impeached during a special sitting of the house on Monday morning.
Also recall that Emeziem’s removal followed a resolution signed by 19 of the 27 members of the house after which Ibeh was sworn in by the Clerk, Mr Chinelo Emeghara.
