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Turmoil has returned to the Imo State House of Assembly, where a purported scheme to unseat Speaker Chike Olemgbe has resulted in the suspension of four legislative members.
The dramatic turn of events unfolded yesterday, with the affected members learning of their suspension during an executive session.
According to a reliable source within the Assembly, the four lawmakers – Samuel Otuibe (Ahiazu-Mbaise), Henry Agbasonu (Ezinihitte-Mbaise), Chidiebere Ogbunikpa (Okigwe), and Dominic Ezerioha (Oru-West) – were accused of masterminding the plot.
The Speaker confirmed the suspension, stating that all committee assignments previously held by the affected members have been revoked.
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In a surprising move, the Speaker also announced minor changes to the standing committees during the plenary session. While some of the suspended members remained tight-lipped about the development, Dominic Ezerioha, representing Oru-West, expressed his confusion and denial when reached for comment.
He stated that he was still in the dark regarding the motives for his suspension, and he strongly refuted any involvement in the alleged plan to impeach the Speaker.
The unfolding crisis has raised questions about the stability of the Imo State House of Assembly, as tensions simmer beneath the surface.
The unfolding saga has put the Assembly in the spotlight, with all attention focused on how this latest development will unfold.
The four suspended lawmakers—Samuel Otuibe, Henry Agbasonu, Chidiebere Ogbunikpa, and Dominic Ezerioha—each have distinct political backgrounds and careers. Samuel Otuibe, representing Ahiazu-Mbaise, is known for his advocacy on rural development issues. Henry Agbasonu of Ezinihitte-Mbaise has a reputation for focusing on education and healthcare improvements.
Chidiebere Ogbunikpa from Okigwe has been vocal about agricultural reforms and youth empowerment, while Dominic Ezerioha of Oru-West is recognized for his efforts in infrastructural development. Their suspensions come as a significant disruption, given their active involvement in various legislative committees and community initiatives.
Each lawmaker has expressed shock and confusion over the allegations, with Ezerioha publicly denying any involvement in the purported plot to unseat Speaker Chike Olemgbe.
The suspension of these four lawmakers threatens to derail the Imo State House of Assembly’s legislative agenda. Key bills and initiatives, particularly those related to rural development, education, healthcare, agricultural reforms, and infrastructure, are at risk of stalling. Samuel Otuibe’s rural development projects, Henry Agbasonu’s education and healthcare initiatives, Chidiebere Ogbunikpa’s agricultural reforms, and Dominic Ezerioha’s infrastructure plans were all critical components of the Assembly’s agenda. With their committee assignments revoked, the progress of these initiatives is uncertain.
Moreover, the instability within the Assembly could lead to delays in budget approvals and other essential legislative processes, potentially impacting the overall governance and development of Imo State.
