Crisis rocks Abia assembly as members impeach Speaker

• Ikpeazu moves to mediate

The Speaker of Abia State House of Assembly, Chinedum Orji, was reportedly impeached, yesterday, by 18 out of 24 members, who met in an undisclosed venue outside the state Assembly chamber, in Umuahia, the state capital. In his place, the member representing Umuahia East Constituency, Chukwudi Apugo, of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) with Orji, was elected the new Speaker.

A video that trended online showed the impeachment session allegedly presided over by the Deputy Speaker, Ifeanyi Uchendu, with names and signatures of the 18 members posted online. According to the online report, Uchendu only said that the embattled Speaker was impeached on various allegations against him.”

The House is yet to reconvene since it vacated about three months ago to enable members participate in party activities and campaigns for the just concluded national and state elections.

It was, however, gathered that the non-reconvention of the House was to prevent Orji’s impeachment, and to allow members’ grievances against him be addressed.

As early as 08:00 a.m., security agents were seen at the House gate, stopping people from entry. Nevertheless, Orji could not respond to calls made to his mobile phone for his reactions; but speaking to journalists on phone, Jerry Uzosike, representing Umuahia South, and Ike Onuzurike of Umuahia North said the impeachment exercise was illegal and cannot stand. The duo are said to be top and die-hard supporters of Orji.

MEANWHILE, there are indications that the state governor, Okezie Ikpeazu, may intervene in the current House crisis. The Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to governor, Onyebuchi Ememanka, made this known, yesterday, in a statement.

The CPS said: “The governor is of the view that with barely one month to the end of his administration, and the ushering in of a new administration, it will make no sense to engage in any issue that is likely to plunge the state into any form of confusion.”

He stated that Ikpeazu does not have the luxury of time and resources for any crisis at the moment, adding that the mood in the state makes any such move inexpedient.

Indicating that the governor would shortly meet with the lawmakers, Ikpeazu appealed to Orji and other lawmakers to maintain peace, and allow reason and patriotism guide their actions.