Following a letter of resignation issued to the House by the outgoing speaker, Kennedy Ibeh (APC), who represented the Obowo State Constituency, the Imo State House of Assembly yesterday elected Emeka Nduka of the All Progressives Congress, APC, to the position of Speaker.
The Deputy Speaker, Chyna Iwuanyanwu, who presided over a special meeting behind closed doors and delivered the letter of resignation from Ibeh to House members, verified this to reporters.
When Iwuayanwu called for nominations, Mr. Kanayo Onyemaechi (APC Owerri West) proposed Nduka, and Mrs. Uju Onwudiwe seconded him (APC Njaba).
Reacting, the resigned speaker, through his Chief Press Secretary, CPS, Ifeanyi Onyekachi, said: “It is with a due sense of responsibility that we announce the resignation of Rt. Hon. Barr Kennedy Chidozie Ibeh, as the Speaker, Imo State House of Assembly.
“Within his short period as the Speaker, IMHA, Kennedy Chidozie Ibeh redefined the legislative process, restored the dignity of the legislature and placed Imo State House of Assembly on a high pedestal.
“He, therefore, wishes to re- iterate his commitment to the 3-R Government of Gov. Hope Uzodimma and to pledge his loyalty and support to the Governor, the good people of Obowo State Constituency and Imo State.”
So far, the Imo State House of Assembly has produced four speakers in three years, starting from when Chiji Collins (APC) representing Isiala Mbano state constituency was impeached for alleged highhandedness, but he was later reportedly pardoned. Chiji was replaced by Mr. Paul Emeziem, (APC Onuimo). Emeziem was later sacked last year November on an allegation of forgery and Kennedy Ibeh took over.